Nkuku: the story behind the brand

Thanks to their growing reputation for beautiful homewares made using natural materials from ethical sources, Nkuku's products are much-loved by our customers who appreciate their ethical provenance and unique designs. With this in mind and with the new company's new Spring / Summer collection just launched, we thought we’d take a look at Nkuku to discover how and why the business was founded, the brand’s charity partnerships and their commitment to sustainability and the natural world.

Nkuku's Journey

Nkuku’s ethos is built on a commitment to working with independent artisans and creating sustainable products that stand the test of time. Their collections range from homewares and furniture to accessories, all handcrafted using natural and recycled materials. The company aims to preserve traditional skills while providing fair opportunities to the artisans they collaborate with, many of whom work in rural communities across India, Africa, and South East Asia.

Nkuku’s story begins with a journey undertaken by its founders, Ali and Alex, in 2002. The couple, who were living in London at the time, decided to embark on a year-long trip around the world. It was during this adventure, particularly in East Africa and India, that they became inspired by the beauty and craftsmanship of handmade products. They encountered artisans using traditional methods to create beautiful, intricate pieces, and they realised the potential to bring these unique items to a wider audience.

Upon returning to the UK, the couple decided to turn their inspiration into a business. They began by shipping products they had sourced abroad and selling them from a hayloft in Devon. From these humble beginnings, Nkuku evolved into a brand that prioritises sustainability, ethical sourcing, and supporting traditional craftsmanship. The company name, ‘Nkuku’, is derived from a village in Zambia, reflecting the founders’ early travels and the spirit of exploration that inspired their work.

The brand has grown significantly since its inception, but it has maintained its core values of ethical production and sustainability. Nkuku continues to offer beautifully made products that tell a story, celebrating the craftsmanship and the people behind each piece, while promoting a mindful, sustainable approach to consumption.

Ethical Values and Concern for the Environment

Nkuku’s commitment to sustainability is central to its business ethos, reflected in their focus on using natural, reclaimed, and recycled materials. Working closely with artisans and cooperatives, Nkuku maintains fair and transparent relationships to support traditional crafts and ensure ethical production. By sourcing sustainable materials like wood, metal, and glass, Nkuku minimises its environmental impact while promoting long-lasting, eco-friendly products. As a certified B Corporation, Nkuku is committed to high social and environmental standards, balancing purpose with profit.

There’s more to Nkuku's approach than materials, though; with an emphasis on reducing the environmental footprint across all aspects of its supply chain. This includes ensuring that its products are crafted with care and designed to last, avoiding the pitfalls of disposable consumerism. By supporting traditional craftsmanship, Nkuku helps preserve skills that are both environmentally and culturally sustainable, while empowering communities economically.

Ethical business practices are central to Nkuku’s ethos. By trading fairly and creating sustainable employment, they ensure that everyone in their supply chain benefits from their success. In addition, this approach fits with their broader goal of creating a positive impact on both the environment and the communities they work with.

The company’s ongoing efforts to enhance its sustainability practices demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. Though they acknowledge there is always more work to be done, Nkuku’s dedication to doing better, reducing waste, and supporting artisans is a core aspect of their business model. Their mission is to offer products that not only reflect aesthetic beauty but also embody responsible, ethical production and a sustainable way of living.

At Kayu Home we love Nkuku products just as much as you do and with a wide range of beautiful, ethical homewares to choose from, we know you’ll be spoilt for choice! We are a major stockist of Nkuku products, with a large collection available to view here at our West Yorkshire showroom and an even greater range available to purchase through our website. See our full range of carefully selected products from the Nkuku range, including the latest Spring / Summer 25 collection, online.