VERAGE Greenwich Collection Wins the 2026 iF Design Award, Setting a New Benchmark for Sustainable Travel Design
The 2026 iF Design Award winners have been officially announced. The Greenwich Collection by VERAGE, has been recognized with the prestigious iF Design Award, one of the world’s most respected design honors.
Selected from entries submitted across 72 countries and regions, the Greenwich Collection stood out for its innovative sustainable design, user-centered functionality, and modern aesthetics. The award further strengthens VERAGE’s position as a leading innovator in the global travel luggage industry.
About the iF Design Award
Founded in 1953 and organized by the German iF International Forum Design, the iF Design Award is widely regarded as one of the world’s most influential design competitions. Together with the Red Dot Design Award, IDEA Award, and Japan’s Good Design Award (G-Mark), it is considered one of the four major international design awards.
The award evaluates products based on criteria including:
- · Design quality
- · Innovation
- · Functionality
- · Sustainability and environmental compatibility
- · Ergonomics
- · User experience
The 2026 jury consisted of 132 independent experts from more than 20 countries across the fields of design, business, and technology. Following multiple rounds of rigorous evaluation, only a small percentage of entries received recognition.
The Greenwich Collection’s success demonstrates its excellence in design innovation, sustainable manufacturing, and traveler-focused functionality.
Greenwich Collection: Where Sustainability Meets Practical Travel
As one of VERAGE’s flagship product lines, the Greenwich Collection has attracted significant attention since its launch. Following its previous Red Dot Design Award recognition, the collection now adds the iF Design Award to its growing list of international achievements.
Designed for business trips, city breaks, and leisure travel, the collection offers a sustainable and practical travel solution for modern travelers.
1.Sustainable Material Innovation: Recycled r-PET Construction
At the core of the Greenwich Collection is a full-lifecycle sustainability philosophy.
Both the shell and interior lining are manufactured using recycled PET (r-PET) materials derived from discarded plastic water bottles and beverage containers. These materials undergo extensive cleaning, melting, and fiber-processing procedures before being transformed into durable travel products.
Each 19-inch suitcase helps recycle approximately 53 standard 500ml plastic bottles.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the material delivers excellent:
- · Impact resistance
- · Durability
- · Water resistance
- · Long-term performance
This balance between sustainability and product performance aligns closely with the iF Design Award’s environmental compatibility criteria.
2.User-Centered Functional Design
The Greenwich Collection incorporates a range of practical features designed around the needs of today’s travelers.
Features | Key Points | Benefits |
Front Opening Compartment | The front-access design allows quick retrieval of laptops, tablets, documents, and travel essentials without opening the main compartment. | Faster airport security checks Improved convenience for business travelers
|
Asymmetrical Wheel System | The luggage features a distinctive small-front-wheel and large-rear-wheel configuration paired with silent spinner wheels. | Greater stability Smoother maneuverability Enhanced performance across different terrains Reduced rolling noise |
Multi-Functional Side Hooks | Four concealed side hooks are integrated into the case structure. | Convenient attachment of umbrellas, shopping bags, and accessories Hands-free travel experience |
Expandable Capacity | The expandable side panel increases storage capacity by up to 25%. | Greater packing flexibility Ideal for return trips and unexpected purchases |
3.Minimalist Design Aesthetics
Inspired by the “Less is More” philosophy, the Greenwich Collection removes unnecessary visual complexity and focuses on clean geometric lines and balanced proportions.
A matte-textured surface enhances both visual sophistication and scratch resistance.
The collection is available in five contemporary color options:
- · Enamel Blue
- · Warm Sun Yellow
- · Beige
- · Black
- · Green
The refined matte finish creates a modern, premium appearance that appeals to travelers seeking both style and functionality.
VERAGE: Driving the Future of Sustainable Travel
For decades, VERAGE has focused on creating travel products that combine aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
According to the VERAGE Design Director:
“The Greenwich Collection represents more than a suitcase. It reflects a lifestyle that values ease, freedom, and confidence in travel. Every design decision from materials to functionality was made to improve the overall travel experience rather than simply add specifications. This award is both recognition and motivation for us to continue exploring the future of sustainable mobility.”
Today, VERAGE has established a comprehensive sustainability management framework covering:
- · Responsible material sourcing
- · Manufacturing process optimization
- · Carbon-conscious packaging solutions
- · Product lifecycle management
The company has also announced a strategic goal to increase the use of recycled materials to 60% across its product portfolio within the next three years.
Looking Ahead
VERAGE remains committed to advancing sustainable travel solutions.
By 2027, the brand plans to expand beyond luggage into a broader travel ecosystem, including:
- · Travel organizers
- · Toiletry bags
- · Packing accessories
- · Everyday travel essentials
The goal is to create a more complete and convenient travel experience while continuing to reduce environmental impact through responsible product innovation.
About the iF Design Award
Established in 1953, the iF Design Award is organized by the German iF International Forum Design and is recognized globally as a symbol of design excellence.
Its evaluation system is built on the principles of independence, rigor, and credibility, rewarding outstanding achievements across product design, communication design, packaging, architecture, and interior design.
Today, the iF Design Award is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious quality marks in the international design community.
About VERAGE
Founded in Manchester, United Kingdom, in 1958 by saddlery craftsman William Moore, VERAGE has spent decades reimagining the travel experience through human-centered design.
In 1999, VERAGE established its China headquarters in Hangzhou, creating an integrated business model that combines original design, research and development, manufacturing, global sales, and customized luggage solutions.
The company has obtained more than 80 product design patents and has received multiple international design awards, including the Red Dot Design Award and the iF Design Award.
Today, VERAGE products are sold in 86 countries and regions worldwide through a network of more than 3,000 retail locations.
VERAGE continues to develop innovative luggage and travel products that combine lightweight construction, durability, functional performance, and contemporary aesthetics, helping travelers around the world enjoy smoother and more comfortable journeys.

