National, April 27, 2026: uppercase, a sustainable and eco-friendly Indian luggage and travel gear brand, has won the prestigious Red Dot Design Award 2026 for its innovative Vortex Backpack. With this recognition, uppercase becomes the first Indian brand in the luggage category to win the award twice, further strengthening its position as a design-led travel gear brand built in India. uppercase first received the honour in 2024 for its suitcase Bullet, which became the first Indian luggage product in 69 years to achieve the distinction.
The Vortex Backpack was recognised by the Red Dot jury for its exceptional functionality, quality and design. The backpack, built for multiple roles, from the boardroom to the boarding gate, comes with 7 zipper pockets & 1 separate tech POD for all tech essentials. Key features include a dual-access main compartment for quick access, multiple external pockets that improve organisation, and a dedicated section for laptops and devices. The backpack also integrates thoughtful elements such as structured foam construction for durability, ergonomic CloudFoam shoulder straps for long-wear comfort, and GRS-certified recycled materials, bringing together functionality, accessibility and sustainability in one design.
Commenting on the recognition, Sudip Ghose, Founder and MD, uppercase, said, “Winning the Red Dot Design Award for the second time is a proud milestone for us. For a new-age Indian luggage brand, it reinforces our belief that products designed and made in India can compete with the best in the world.
With Vortex, the idea was to create the ultimate everyday backpack. It is built for the daily commuter, the biker navigating city traffic, and professionals who carry their work through long days. The focus was on making a bag that supports real-life movement, something practical, reliable and comfortable enough to be the natural choice for everyday use.”
Sharing the thinking behind the design, Nidhi Rajora, Co-Founder & Chief Design Officer, uppercase, added, “Receiving the Red Dot Design Award for Vortex marks a meaningful recognition of design that is both intuitive and purposeful, Vortex is a celebration of clarity in motion—where every stitch, pocket, and detail was designed to feel effortless, yet perform with intent. This award affirms our belief that thoughtful design, executed with clarity and precision, has the power to elevate everyday experiences.”
The Red Dot Design Award is one of the world’s most respected international design recognitions, celebrating excellence in product innovation, usability and design quality. Winners are selected by an independent jury of global design experts.
With two Red Dot wins to its name, the brand continues to build design-led and sustainable travel gear from India, reflecting the brand’s commitment to thoughtful innovation and everyday usability. It is an approach that defines uppercase’s belief in creating products that are Never Ordinary.
About uppercase:
uppercase is a leading travel gear brand dedicated to empowering conscious explorers. Recognising that exploration and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand, uppercase designs and manufactures stylish, high-quality travel essentials crafted from recycled materials while using sustainable practices. Their innovative product line includes eco-friendly backpacks, trolley bags, duffles, and shoulder bags. uppercase became the first Indian luggage brand in 69 years to win the prestigious Red Dot Award for its innovative Bullet suitcase, recognized globally as one of the highest honors in design. Founded by passionate travel enthusiasts committed to the planet, uppercase fosters a positive impact by partnering with environmentally conscious young people. Together, they advocate for a more sustainable future of travel.
