Sharp Launches Affordable Ice Slurry Refrigerator Rental Service for Japanese Schools
Japanese electronics manufacturer Sharp is launching a new rental service in May 2026, providing specialized refrigerators to schools and student sports teams. These units convert standard plastic-bottled beverages into 'ice slurry,' a sherbet-like mixture of ice and liquid designed to lower core body temperature and prevent heatstroke during extreme summer heat. The service targets educational institutions and club activities, offering rates 40 to 50% lower than previous corporate rentals to ensure accessibility. The refrigerators, with a 72-liter capacity holding up to forty 500ml bottles, utilize fan control to maintain a 'supercooled' state without fully freezing the contents. This initiative builds on Sharp's existing business-to-business rentals, now expanded to the education sector by reusing older models to reduce costs. With heatstroke prevention becoming a critical concern in Japan, particularly highlighted during events like the National High School Baseball Championship, this product aims to support student health. Reservations open on Sharp's official website, with a standard one-year rental period starting May 13th.
Wire timeline
Sharp Launches Affordable Ice Slurry Refrigerator Rental Service for Japanese Schools
Japanese electronics manufacturer Sharp is launching a new rental service in May 2026, providing specialized refrigerators to schools and student sports teams. These units convert standard plastic-bottled beverages into 'ice slurry,' a sherbet-like mixture of ice and liquid designed to lower core body temperature and prevent heatstroke during extreme summer heat. The service targets educational institutions and club activities, offering rates 40 to 50% lower than previous corporate rentals to ensure accessibility. The refrigerators, with a 72-liter capacity holding up to forty 500ml bottles, utilize fan control to maintain a 'supercooled' state without fully freezing the contents. This initiative builds on Sharp's existing business-to-business rentals, now expanded to the education sector by reusing older models to reduce costs. With heatstroke prevention becoming a critical concern in Japan, particularly highlighted during events like the National High School Baseball Championship, this product aims to support student health. Reservations open on Sharp's official website, with a standard one-year rental period starting May 13th.
asahi