In a major achievement for the global zipper manufacturer, YKK was awarded the Grand Prize at the Orange Innovation Award 2024 for its groundbreaking work in creating user-friendly zippers. The award ceremony, held on March 5, 2025, recognized YKK’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in product design, focusing on innovations that improve the lives of individuals, especially those with dementia or mobility challenges.
The Orange Innovation Award, organized by the Dementia Innovation Alliance Working Group Secretariat under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), highlights products and services that are developed through a co-creation process involving people with dementia. YKK’s award-winning zippers were recognized for their emphasis on ease of use and accessibility, with features designed to help those with physical limitations, such as larger zipper pulls, smoother operation, and easy-to-grip tabs.
As Japan faces an aging population, with the number of people affected by dementia and MCI (mild cognitive impairment) expected to reach 12 million by 2040, YKK’s innovation aligns with the growing demand for products that allow individuals to maintain their independence. The company’s work demonstrates how thoughtful design, guided by the needs of users, can create solutions that make a real difference in daily life.
The Grand Prize awarded to YKK highlights the importance of participatory development, where individuals with dementia are actively involved in the design process. By prioritizing user-friendly features and accessibility, YKK’s zippers have set a new standard for products aimed at improving the quality of life for people with dementia and other mobility challenges.
