Japanese companies are busy developing products to help people cope with this summer’s heat, which is expected to be as severe as last year.
Sales of small fans are robust, surpassing those of 2023. Energy-saving air conditioners are also flying off the shelves. As humid weather reaches its peak, products to prevent body odor are attracting attention.
At electronics store Bic Camera, sales of air conditioners, fans and circulators are rising in tandem with the rising mercury. The rise in electricity prices has made energy-saving products popular.
At retailer Hands, sales of small electric fans that can be held in one hand were 1.8 times higher than a year earlier from March to mid-June.
“Many people buy multiple fans with different designs to use separately at work and on vacation,” said a Hands employee.
Liberta, another retailer, launched clothing in late June with special fibers that flexibly adjust the temperature of the fabric, so that the products feel cool against the skin. In an online pre-sale, the products sold out within a week.
Sogo & Seibu department stores sell products against sticky skin and body odor.
Sales of perfumes and colognes in June were up about 10% from a year earlier. Hair care products such as luxury shampoos grew by about 30%. Parasols are popular.
Kao’s cooling neck towels and Mandom’s body cleansing wipes for men are also selling well.
Makers are getting creative with ways to help people survive Japan’s hot summers.
