[ayumisrael]

I think that if she releases some singles for an album there are 2 options:
1. There would be a hit/semi-hit and it would help the album to be more popular than what it would be without it to the audience.
2. Maybe even with no hits but multiple singles for an album it still arouse interest more than no singles at all due to tie-ins (even not popular ones) and the single songs are the most recognised or arouse interest in the public.

That's why I think kuu's JAPONESQUE sold a few thousands more than Party Queen (because JAPONESQUE had 3 singles with 6 single songs on it).

Had ayu release at least 1 double a-side physical single I think it could do some more 10,000s with just a decent tie-in.

Maybe if progress would be a single or there would be another single for FIVE it could sell around 250,000 too.
Singles or single songs give more interest towards the general public (even if it's minor) and fans to look at an album.