Totnes based gifting business DCUK has formally received its King’s Award for Enterprise, recognising the South Devon company’s sustained growth in international markets.
DCUK, The Original Wooden Duck Company, received the award from Lord-Lieutenant of Devon David Fursdon at a presentation at its headquarters on Monday 21 September. Indonesian Ambassador to the UK H.E. Desra Percaya also attended, reflecting a relationship between the Devon business and craftspeople in Indonesia that stretches back more than 20 years.
The company is one of five Devon businesses to receive a King’s Award for Enterprise this year and one of three recognised for International Trade.
DCUK builds international market from South Devon
The recognition follows a period of significant growth for DCUK, with sales increasing by 187% over four years, meaning turnover has almost tripled during the period.
North America has become the company’s largest overseas market, with the US and Canada accounting for the majority of its export sales. DCUK has also developed markets in Australia, Japan, Italy and elsewhere in Europe.
Owner Craig Wensley said: “Receiving the King’s Award was already an incredibly proud moment, but having the opportunity to bring together so many of the people who have played a part in the DCUK story made the presentation particularly special.
“To receive the award here in Devon from the Lord-Lieutenant, alongside our team and partners, was a real honour and we were also delighted to welcome Ambassador Desra Percaya. Our relationship with Indonesia has been at the heart of the brand for more than 20 years, so to have both Devon and Indonesia represented as we celebrated this milestone felt especially fitting.”
DCUK is known for its handcrafted wooden duck characters, combining British design with traditional Indonesian craftsmanship. The company has worked with craftspeople in Indonesia since 2004, with its characters individually carved and painted from bamboo root.
The relationship was also highlighted during a visit to the Indonesian Embassy in London earlier this month, ahead of the Ambassador’s visit to Devon.
The award presentation brought together around 30 people, including DCUK staff, suppliers, agency partners and business contacts. A key supplier travelled from Indonesia for the occasion.
For Devon’s business community, DCUK’s growth provides another example of a company building international sales from a base in the county. It follows other Devon businesses using e-commerce and specialist products to reach customers well beyond the South West, including the recent story of Car Mod Shop’s international growth.
Craig added: “This award belongs to everyone who has played a part in DCUK’s journey, from our local team here to our talented makers in Indonesia, our stockists, suppliers, partners and the people who have welcomed our characters into their homes.
“We may now be sending our ducks further around the world than ever before, but we’re incredibly proud that the heart of the business remains here in Devon.”
More information about DCUK and its King’s Award for International Trade is available from DCUK.
South West businesses can also submit a free company listing to Devon Business Directory, with Business Leader listings and featured articles available for companies looking to build their profile across the region.
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