What Is Inclusive Packaging?

What Is Inclusive Packaging? Examples and Design Strategies

In an age where consumer preferences are as diverse as the global marketplace itself, how products are packaged says a lot about a brand’s values and priorities. Product packaging has evolved into a powerful tool for expression and connection—it’s not just about what’s inside the box anymore; it’s about how the box itself can reflect empathy, understanding, and inclusivity.

Brands that stand out in a competitive marketplace are often those that understand and address the unique needs of their customers. Beyond aesthetics or even sustainability—success touches on the fundamental principles of accessibility and inclusion. The best retail product packaging is one that considers every potential user, ensuring that products are not only easy to open and understand, but also resonate with a diverse audience.

Whether it’s a bottle that’s easy to grip for someone with arthritis, A label that is easy to read for someone with low vision, or a package that communicates in multiple languages, the details matter. These elements of packaging design aren’t just commodities; they’re essential components of a brand’s identity and its relationship with the people it serves.

In this article, explore the concept of inclusive packaging and dive into key strategies and examples that show how your brand can successfully implement inclusive design principles.

What Is Inclusive Packaging?

Inclusive packaging refers to the design and development of product packaging that is accessible, usable, and appealing to a wide range of people, regardless of their abilities, age, or cultural background. The core idea behind inclusive packaging is to ensure that everyone, including individuals with disabilities or those from diverse cultural communities, can interact with, and benefit from the product without any barriers.

At its core, inclusive packaging design aims to make products usable by as many people as possible without the need for special adaptations. This strategy could mean designing packaging that’s easy to open, using clear and readable labels, or incorporating tactile elements like Braille for those with visual impairments. The goal is to create a seamless experience for every customer, ensuring that no one is excluded from using or enjoying the product.

inclusive packaging
Source: Amazon

Moreover, accessible design plays a significant role in inclusive packaging. It’s about considering the different physical and sensory needs of all potential users. This approach includes ensuring text on the packaging is large enough to be easily read or using symbols and colors that are distinguishable, even for those with visual challenges. These thoughtful design choices not only enhance usability but also show a brand’s commitment to inclusivity.

Inclusive design is now a necessity for brands that want to stay relevant and competitive. By prioritizing inclusivity, businesses can build stronger connections with a diverse customer base, ultimately leading to increased loyalty and market share.

Importance of Inclusive Packaging

Inclusive packaging goes beyond design choices—it’s also a strategic move that can significantly impact a brand’s reputation and bottom line. Today, consumers are paying attention to how products are presented and whether they cater to a wide range of needs. Designing for inclusion allows brands to demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity, which resonates with today’s conscientious consumers.

The key benefits of inclusive packaging include:

  • Enhanced customer satisfaction – Thoughtfully designed packaging that is accessible and user-friendly creates a positive experience for all customers, including those with disabilities or specific cultural needs. This fosters brand loyalty and broadens the customer base.
  • Broadened market reach – By making products accessible to a wider audience, businesses can tap into diverse markets, leading to increased sales opportunities.
  • Differentiation in a crowded marketplace – Companies that prioritize inclusive packaging design are likely to stand out as more consumers seek brands that align with their values, leading to stronger brand recognition and a competitive edge.

However, incorporating inclusive design principles into packaging is not just about meeting current consumer demands—it’s about future-proofing your brand. As the push for greater inclusivity continues to grow, businesses that take the lead in this area will be better positioned to thrive in the long term. In essence, investing in inclusive packaging is an investment in the future success and sustainability of your brand.

5 Inclusive Packaging Design Strategies

Designing inclusive packaging involves a holistic approach that takes into account the diverse needs of all potential users. Incorporating inclusive design principles into your packaging strategies allows you to create products that not only function well but also resonate with a broad audience. Here are five key strategies to guide the process.

1. Prioritize accessibility

Accessibility should be at the forefront of any inclusive packaging strategy, ensuring that packaging is easy to use for people with varying physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities. For instance, tactile elements like Braille labels or embossed symbols can significantly enhance the experience for visually impaired consumers, allowing them to identify and interact with products more independently. 

Additionally, using large, high-contrast text ensures that vital information is legible for those with low vision. The design should also account for ease of use; packaging that is difficult to open can be a barrier for individuals with limited dexterity.

inclusive packaging for chocolate

2. Develop cultural sensitivity

In a global market, cultural sensitivity is crucial in packaging design. This strategy involves being mindful of the cultural contexts in which your products will be used. It’s important to use imagery, symbols, and colors that are universally understood and culturally appropriate. Avoiding designs that could be misinterpreted or considered offensive is key to maintaining a positive brand image across different cultural groups.

3. Embrace universal design principles

Universal design is about creating packaging that is intuitive and functional for everyone without the need for adaptation. This strategy emphasizes simplicity and ease of use, ensuring that the packaging works well for the widest range of people. 

You can minimize the number of steps required to open the packaging to make the product more accessible to all users, including those with disabilities or limited mobility. Instructions should be clear and straightforward, allowing users to understand how to use the product quickly. This also allows you to meet the needs of a diverse audience while maintaining a consistent brand experience.

4. Test and iterate

An essential part of designing inclusive packaging is testing your designs with real users, especially those from diverse backgrounds or with disabilities. User testing provides valuable insights into how different people interact with your packaging, revealing potential issues that you might not have anticipated. This process allows you to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments before the product hits the market. 

Additionally, inclusive design is not a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing process. As consumer needs evolve and new technologies emerge, be prepared to iterate and improve your packaging designs. Continuous improvement ensures that your packaging remains relevant and effective in meeting the needs of all users.

5. Ensure sustainability and inclusivity

In today’s market, consumers are increasingly conscious of both environmental impact and social responsibility, making it essential for brands to design packaging that addresses both sustainability and inclusivity. 

For example, reducing unnecessary packaging helps maintain functionality and accessibility while minimizing waste and without compromising on inclusivity. Consider using recyclable or biodegradable materials that are also easy to open and handle by individuals with disabilities or limited dexterity. 

Brands can also explore innovative packaging solutions, such as reusable containers, sustainable folding cartons, or minimalist designs, that cater to both environmental concerns and the diverse needs of their audience. 

7 Examples of Inclusive Packaging

To illustrate how inclusive packaging can be effectively applied, here are examples that demonstrate thoughtful design strategies catering to diverse needs:

1. Tactile differentiation

Tactile differentiation is an approach that is particularly beneficial in situations where visibility is limited. It uses different textures or raised patterns on packaging to help users distinguish between products by touch, making the product packaging more intuitive and user-friendly for everyone. For instance, textured surfaces on custom folding cartons can aid visually impaired users in identifying products by touch.

Adding Braille to product labels also ensures that products are easily identifiable by those who rely on touch to navigate the world. This feature allows consumers to interact with packaging independently, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.

inclusive tactile packaging
Source: Quartz

Brands like Procter & Gamble have integrated Braille on their Herbal Essences shampoo and conditioner bottles. This addition makes it easier for visually impaired users to distinguish between the products, setting a standard for accessible design that other companies can follow.

2. Smart packaging solutions

Integrating technology into packaging, such as QR codes or NFC tags that trigger voice-activated information, provides a modern solution to accessibility challenges. These technologies enable consumers, particularly those who are visually impaired, to access detailed product information through their smartphones. This approach not only makes packaging more inclusive but also leverages technology to enhance user experience.

Kellanova (formerly Kellogg) has introduced NaviLens technology on its packaging in the U.S. to support blind and visually impaired consumers. This innovative technology involves using high-contrast, colorful codes that can be scanned from a distance using a smartphone, allowing consumers to access detailed product information via audio.

Kellogg’s has integrated these codes into packaging for brands like Special K and Rice Krispies, making shopping more accessible. This effort reflects Kellogg’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring their products are accessible to everyone, regardless of visual ability.

3. Multilingual packaging

Multilingual packaging includes text in multiple languages, meeting the needs of diverse consumers. This is crucial in multicultural regions and international markets, ensuring easy understanding of product information. It not only expands a product’s reach but also shows respect for cultural and linguistic diversity.

One approach is to use QR codes or augmented reality (AR) for multilingual product information without cluttering the packaging. Another solution is to use pictograms or universal symbols to convey key information across language barriers.

qr codes for multilingual packaging
Source: Unicode

Brands can customize packaging for specific regions by producing smaller batches in local languages, ensuring it resonates with consumers. This approach addresses language diversity while maintaining clear communication.

Language translation apps like Google Translate help consumers understand product information by typing, scanning, or speaking. However, translation accuracy can be inconsistent, and pronunciation may miss local nuances. Brands can improve accuracy by simplifying the language on packaging.

4. Easy-to-open designs


Accessibility in packaging includes ensuring it’s easy to open, especially for those with limited dexterity or strength, like seniors or people with arthritis. Ergonomic shapes, easy-grip tabs, and simple pull mechanisms can greatly enhance the user experience, reducing frustration and making the product accessible to everyone.

easy to open packaging
Source: Dieline

Brands are moving in this direction by designing ergonomic packaging for a range of their products. These features make the products more accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that they are suitable for a diverse customer base, regardless of physical ability.

5. Color-coded packaging

Color-coded packaging helps differentiate product variants, aiding those who struggle with small print or similar items. Distinct colors make it easier for users to quickly identify the product they need.


High-contrast colors, large sans-serif fonts, and distinctive shapes enhance legibility. In food packaging, geometric shapes like circles and triangles help identify products on a shelf or in a dark cupboard.

color-coded inclusive packaging
Source: Pentawards

6. Universal design in packaging shapes

Universal design principles create intuitive and functional packaging for a wide range of users without needing adaptation. This ensures everyone can use the product easily and effectively. Packaging with universal design often features simple, user-friendly shapes and mechanisms.

Tech packaging often exemplifies this approach with its product packaging, which is known for its sleek, minimalist design. The packaging is not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy to open and intuitive to use, providing a positive experience for all users, including those with disabilities.

Unilever took an innovative approach by developing an inclusive deodorant, with input from individuals with various disabilities. Designed for those with upper limb disabilities and visual impairments, it also serves general users. The deodorant includes a hooked lid for one-handed use, Braille on the label, and an ergonomic base for added convenience.

accessible packaging
Source: Unilever

7. Sustainable packaging with inclusive design

Sustainable packaging that prioritizes inclusivity appeals to eco-conscious consumers and those with accessibility needs. This dual focus shows a commitment to responsible design, resonating with a broad audience.

For example, Amazon’s Frustration-Free Packaging is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that customers can open packages easily and without hassle. This innovation in retail product packaging has led to reduced waste and lower costs across the supply chain. It eliminates the need for complicated fixings, ties, and tapes, instead using materials that are simple to recycle.

sustainable packaging with inclusive design
Source: Lush

Lush is also known for using 100% recycled materials for their packaging, which is also designed to be easy to open and handle. 


A Competitive Packaging Advantage

Designing for inclusion can create deeper connections with a diverse audience, foster loyalty, and enhance the overall brand image. It’s not just about meeting current needs; it’s about anticipating future expectations and setting a standard that others will follow. Inclusive packaging reflects a brand’s commitment to understanding and valuing every consumer, which, in turn, strengthens trust and drives long-term success.

The packaging you choose today can define your brand’s reputation tomorrow. Partnering with Meyers can help your brand create packaging that resonates on every level. We specialize in innovative custom packaging solutions that not only meet the needs of today’s diverse consumers but also help you stand out in a crowded marketplace. Reach out to Meyers experts and start creating packaging that truly connects today!