Taobao's 'City Knight' Uniforms Win Gold at French Design Award 2026
Alibaba's Taobao platform has won a gold award at the French Design Award 2026 for its 'City Knight' uniforms. This marks the first time the award's top prize has been given to professional workwear for frontline laborers.
Alibaba announced that its Taobao platform's 'City Knight' uniforms have received a gold award at the French Design Award 2026 ceremony in Paris on September 19. This is the first instance in the award's history where the gold prize has been granted to professional workwear designed for frontline laborers.
The chief designer of the 'City Knight' uniform, Yang Tao, specifically thanked Alibaba founder Jacky Ma (Ma Yun) for his involvement. According to reports, Ma was deeply engaged in the project, inquiring about design progress daily and participating in wear tests and fabric evaluations. His contribution reportedly focused on enhancing rider safety during night shifts, improving comfort for prolonged periods of wear, and incorporating provisions for emergency medical equipment.
Dario Olivero, president of the French Design Award jury, commented that the initiative represents a "design action of great social significance." He stated that the uniforms provide delivery personnel with recognizable professional attire and present them to the public as distinct and respected urban service workers, highlighting the power of design, art, and humanistic spirit.