British gifting brand DCUK, The Original Wooden Duck Company, has been awarded the 2026 King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, recognising a period of significant overseas growth and more than two decades of international partnership.
The accolade follows four years of strong growth for the independent gifting business, during which sales increased by 187% and turnover reached almost three times its previous level.
Best known for its characterful handcrafted wooden ducks and collectable gift ranges, DCUK has grown from an independent British gifting business into an internationally recognised brand, with its characters sold through official stockists and enjoyed by customers and collectors around the world.
The King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade recognises businesses that have demonstrated outstanding and sustained growth in overseas markets. DCUK is one of just three Devon businesses to receive the International Trade award in 2026.
The recognition marks another milestone for a business that has built its growth around distinctive product design, craftsmanship and long-term relationships with makers and retail partners.
Every DCUK character is created through the company’s long-standing partnership with skilled artisans in Indonesia, who have worked with the business since 2004. Each character is individually handcrafted from bamboo root, combining traditional Indonesian craftsmanship with British-led creativity, character design and gifting appeal.
Craig Wensley, owner of DCUK, said: “Receiving a King’s Award for Enterprise is a huge moment for DCUK and recognition of what can be achieved by an independent gifting brand with a distinctive product and brilliant long-term partnerships.
“Our stockists have played an incredibly important part in that story. Their enthusiasm for the brand and the way they introduce our characters to new customers has helped DCUK continue to grow both at home and internationally.
“We’re also enormously grateful to our team in Devon, our talented makers in Indonesia and, of course, the collectors who continue to welcome new DCUK characters into their homes.”
DCUK’s international growth has been underpinned by the broad appeal of its handcrafted characters and an expanding collection designed for gifting occasions throughout the year.
The brand’s ranges combine collectability with individual character and craftsmanship, giving independent gift retailers and other stockists a product with a distinctive story and strong visual presence in-store.
For DCUK, the King’s Award also recognises the strength of a supply partnership that has now lasted for more than 20 years. Its relationship with its Indonesian makers has remained central to the business as it has expanded into new markets and reached a growing international customer base.
Craig added: “We’ve always believed there is something special about products that have personality, craftsmanship and a genuine story behind them.
“To have that approach recognised through a King’s Award, and particularly for sustained international growth, makes us incredibly proud. We’re excited about what comes next for DCUK and about continuing to grow the brand alongside our stockists and international partners.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise are the UK’s most prestigious official business awards. Organisations receiving the International Trade award must demonstrate substantial and sustained overseas growth, with applications independently assessed before recommendations are approved by His Majesty The King on the advice of the Prime Minister.
