Award-winning poultry specialists

Since 2013, Durham Hens has received regional and national recognition for customer service, rural retailing and small business excellence. We're incredibly grateful to our customers, judges and supporters who have helped us achieve these milestones.

The Rural Business Awards:

Best Rural Retail Business 2019


In 2019, Durham Hens won the national Rural Business Award for Best Rural Retail Business. After progressing through the regional finals in Bolton, we went on to win the national title in Worcestershire, ahead of outstanding businesses from across the UK. The award recognised our commitment to excellent customer service, high standards of poultry welfare and supporting rural communities.

Margaret and Alec Manchester celebrating after winning the Rural Business Award for Best Rural Retail Business in 2019.

Microbusiness of the Year – FSB UK Business Awards (2017)


Winning the Federation of Small Businesses' national Microbusiness of the Year award at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London remains one of the proudest moments in Durham Hens' history. The award recognised our growth, innovation and commitment to customer service.

Margaret and Alec Manchester receiving the FSB UK Microbusiness of the Year award at the national finals in 2017.

Small Business Saturday:

Small Biz 100 2017


In 2017, Durham Hens was selected as one of just 100 businesses across the UK for the prestigious Small Biz 100, organised by Small Business Saturday. The initiative celebrates inspiring small businesses and highlights one winner each day in the run-up to Small Business Saturday. As part of the programme, we were invited to a reception at 10 Downing Street—a memorable experience celebrating the contribution of small businesses to the UK economy.

Margaret Manchester outside 10 Downing Street after being selected for the Small Biz 100 initiative in 2017.

Living North Awards:

Small Business of the Year 2015


Durham Hens was named Living North Small Business of the Year in recognition of the company's growth and commitment to customer service. Receiving the award at the Newcastle ceremony was a memorable moment and an important milestone in our journey.

The Durham Hens team celebrating after winning the Living North Small Business of the Year Award in 2015, with Margaret, Alec, Stephen and Richard.

WIN Awards:

Best Home Based Business 2015


In 2015, Durham Hens won the WIN Award for Best Home-Based Business. We were also named runner-up in the Best Small Business category, making it a memorable year of recognition for the company. These awards reflected our continued growth and commitment to providing quality poultry and excellent customer service.

Margaret Manchester with other winners at the WIN Awards, where Durham Hens won Best Home-Based Business in 2015.

Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday

2014


On 7 September 2014, Durham Hens was selected by Theo Paphitis as a winner of his Small Business Sunday (#SBS) initiative. Chosen from hundreds of entries, this recognition was an important milestone for the business. The annual #SBS events have since provided valuable opportunities to meet, learn from and be inspired by fellow small business owners.

Margaret Manchester with Theo Paphitis after Durham Hens was selected as a Small Business Sunday winner in 2014.

Grow Your Own Awards:

Best UK Poultry Retailer 2013


In 2013, Durham Hens won the Grow Your Own Award for Best UK Poultry Retailer. Voted for by readers of one of the UK's leading gardening magazines, the award recognised the businesses they valued most. As our very first award, it was especially meaningful because it came directly from our customers, who took the time to nominate and vote for us.

Free-range hens at Durham Hens, winner of the Grow Your Own Best UK Poultry Retailer Award in 2013.