The Houston Astros have entered into a 15-year exclusive naming rights partnership with Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc. (Daikin), renaming their iconic downtown Houston stadium to Daikin Park. The agreement begins on January 1, 2025, and extends through the 2039 season. Along with naming rights, the partnership includes community-focused initiatives and enhancements to the fan experience.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
Jim Crane, Owner and Chairman of the Houston Astros, expressed excitement about the collaboration:
“Daikin is an international company that proudly calls the Greater Houston area its North American home. The Astros and Daikin share a commitment to excellence and giving back to the community. As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of this ballpark in 2025, I’m proud to have Daikin alongside us to create more special memories for our fans.”
Daikin’s Deep Houston Ties
Daikin Industries, Ltd., a global leader in indoor comfort solutions, was founded in Japan in 1924 and recently marked its 100th anniversary. With over 22,000 employees across its U.S. group companies, Daikin plays a significant role in Houston’s economy. Its Daikin Texas Technology Park in Waller, Texas—a 4.2 million-square-foot facility—is the largest HVAC manufacturing site in North America, employing approximately 10,000 people in the Greater Houston area.
In August 2024, Daikin launched an initiative with the City of Houston to install advanced heating and cooling systems in low-to-moderate-income homes, showcasing its commitment to comfort and energy efficiency for local residents.
Satoru Akama, President and CEO of Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc., emphasized the alignment between the Astros and Daikin:
“We are thrilled to partner with the Houston Astros. Our shared values of excellence in sports and community leadership make this collaboration a natural fit.”
Investing in Houston’s Future
The partnership will enhance the Astros’ ongoing efforts to improve fan amenities and deliver a premium gameday experience. It also includes youth sports development programs and educational initiatives in underserved areas. Takayuki “Taka” Inoue, Executive Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc., added:
“This partnership is a testament to our shared love for Houston and the Greater Houston communities. We look forward to building something special together.”
Honoring the Past, Building for the Future
Daikin Park succeeds Minute Maid Park, which had been the ballpark’s name since 2002. Minute Maid will remain a partner of the Astros through 2029. Jim Crane expressed gratitude:
“We thank Minute Maid and The Coca-Cola Company for their longstanding support. They have been integral to our history, and we are thrilled they will continue to be part of our future.”
The inaugural game at Daikin Park will be an exhibition matchup on Monday, March 24, 2025, between the Astros and their Triple-A affiliate, the Sugar Land Space Cowboys. The Astros will open the 2025 regular season at Daikin Park on Thursday, March 27, 2025, against the New York Mets.
Through this transformative partnership, Daikin and the Astros aim to elevate their shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement, ensuring Daikin Park becomes a landmark for fans and residents alike.
