DCUK – The Original Wooden Duck Company, is celebrating after being honoured with a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise 2026 in the category of International Trade.
The Awards are among the most respected business honours in the UK, recognising outstanding achievement in areas including international trade, innovation and sustainable development. Award winners are entitled to hold the honour for five years in recognition of their achievement.
Founded in Devon more than 20 years ago, DCUK has become known for its hand-carved and hand-painted wooden characters, which are collected and gifted by customers around the world. What began with a few ducks and a simple mission to help people smile has grown into an internationally recognised gifting brand working with retailers, collectors and partners across the UK, North America, Europe and beyond.
DCUK owner Craig Wensley said: “To receive a King’s Award for Enterprise is a proud moment for our whole team. DCUK has always been built around craftsmanship, character and creating products that make people smile, so to see an independent British gifting brand recognised in this way feels very special indeed. We’re especially grateful for the ongoing support and enthusiasm from our team, our makers, official stockists, and all our collectors around the world.”
DCUK head of marketing Steve Manser added: “The application process is incredibly detailed and rigorous, requiring brands to demonstrate excellence across several areas including growth, strategy, international development and wider business impact, so this recognition means a huge amount to us.
“Over the last few years, we’ve enjoyed seeing new retailers and customers around the world discovering the characters and the stories behind them. There’s a real sense of excitement across the DCUK brand right now, and we’re already working on ways to properly celebrate and commemorate this important award over the coming weeks and months. Watch this space.”
