Universal Design (UD) was a strong theme at Tokyo Pack 2012. UD – or as we know it, accessible design – governs much of the technology coming to market in Japan It caters to Japan’s ageing population (Japan is the most rapidly ageing country in the world, with 26.6 million over the age of 65) and reinforces the culturally ingrained respect and care for the user of the package. UD is not just for the old or disabled, it’s to ensure convenient use of packaging for everyone.
Kyodo Printing Co, one of the oldest printing and packaging companies in Japan, showcased some of its most innovative packaging solutions for product protection and preservation, easy-of-use, and improved efficiency.
The company integrated UD features in its BananaOpen pack, ideal for pharmaceutical and food products, which consists of a tray to contain the product, covered by a pouch which opens like a lid on top.
Easy to peel in a single smooth action (hence its name), the pouch-lid has a stopper mechanism at its sides. This mechanism stops the lid from being peeled off completely, and also prevents the unnecessary “explosion” of products spilling out.
