📋 Data Accuracy Notice — All specifications on this page are based on publicly available information as of 2026. We welcome manufacturers to submit updated specifications directly to info@sjball.uk — we’ll update our data within 48 hours. We’re committed to accuracy, and we’re happy to be checked.
A Better Alternative to Howdens in Essex - 18mm Rigid Units, Direct to Homeowners, Delivered in 10 Working Days.
Made to Order
Rigid Built
Nationwide Delivery
Blum Soft Close
Why Essex Homeowners Choose SJB Trade Kitchens Over Howdens
When it comes to kitchen design and installation in Essex, many homeowners face a common challenge: Howdens Kitchens operate on a trade-only model, which means you must have a builder or fitter with a trade account to place an order. This can complicate the process, increase costs, and limit your control over your kitchen project. At SJB Trade Kitchens, we provide a seamless alternative for Essex residents, selling directly to homeowners with no middleman required. Our approach offers transparency, flexibility, and significant savings without compromising quality.
Local Property Types and Neighbourhoods in Essex
Essex is a diverse county with a rich mix of property styles ranging from charming Victorian terraces in Colchester, traditional semis in Chelmsford, to contemporary new builds in Southend-on-Sea and luxury homes in Brentwood and Epping Forest. Many homeowners are seeking bespoke kitchen solutions that fit perfectly into these varying home layouts, whether it is a period property requiring custom sizing or a modern open-plan kitchen needing sleek, contemporary units.
Neighbourhoods such as Billericay, Basildon, and Harlow showcase a blend of older homes and new developments, creating a demand for kitchens that can be tailored to individual needs. This is where SJB Trade Kitchens excel by offering bespoke sizing options and a wide selection of styles that can accommodate the unique requirements of Essex homes.
The Howdens Trade-Only Model and Its Problems for Homeowners
Howdens Kitchens have become popular among tradespeople, but their trade-only policy means homeowners cannot order kitchens directly. This results in several issues for Essex homeowners:
- Dependence on a Builder or Fitter: You must already have a trade professional with an account to order Howdens products, which is not always convenient or possible for self-managing homeowners.
- Increased Costs: Builders and fitters may add their own markups or fees, making the total cost higher than expected.
- Limited Control: You rely on the trade professional to communicate your preferences and manage the order, which can lead to misunderstandings and delays.
- Restricted Flexibility: The trade-only model limits your ability to explore options, compare pricing transparently, or make last-minute custom changes.
Why SJB Trade Kitchens Offer the Best Alternative in Essex
SJB Trade Kitchens understand the frustrations Essex homeowners face with Howdens. We provide a direct-to-homeowner service that eliminates the need for a trade account or middleman. Our advantages include:
- 18mm Backs: We use robust 18mm backs on all kitchen units, offering greater strength and durability compared to the thinner materials often used by competitors.
- Bespoke Sizing: We appreciate that Essex properties vary greatly in kitchen layout and size. Our bespoke sizing service ensures your kitchen units fit perfectly, maximising space and functionality.
- 10-Day Delivery: Time is important in home projects. We commit to delivering your kitchen within 10 days, helping you complete your project on schedule.
- Transparent Pricing: Unlike Howdens, where pricing can be opaque and influenced by trade account holders, we offer clear, all-year-round pricing with no hidden fees.
- No Trade Account Needed: Whether you are a first-time homeowner or managing your own renovation, you can order directly from us with ease and confidence.
Furthermore, SJB Trade Kitchens are 30-50% cheaper than Howdens, allowing Essex homeowners to invest in higher quality or additional features without breaking the budget.
Steve from Altrincham and Our Showroom in Oldham
Our knowledgeable team includes Steve from Altrincham, who guides customers through the ordering process to ensure they choose the best kitchen for their needs. While our showroom is located in Oldham, we serve customers across Essex, providing expert advice and support remotely to guarantee your project runs smoothly.
If you want to discuss your kitchen project or need help selecting styles and sizes, you can contact us on 0161 509 4221. We are dedicated to making kitchen renovations in Essex straightforward, affordable, and satisfying.
Conclusion
Essex homeowners seeking a better alternative to Howdens trade-only kitchens find SJB Trade Kitchens to be the perfect solution. With direct sales to homeowners, bespoke sizing, superior construction, fast delivery, and transparent pricing, we eliminate the common frustrations and costs associated with Howdens. Whether you live in Chelmsford, Colchester, Brentwood, or anywhere in Essex, choose SJB Trade Kitchens for a kitchen that fits your home and your budget perfectly.
Howdens operates on a trade-only model. As a homeowner, you cannot walk into a Howdens depot and buy a kitchen. You need a builder or fitter with a Howdens trade account to order on your behalf. This creates a fundamental problem: you have no direct control over what is ordered, no ability to compare prices yourself, and no direct relationship with the supplier. Your fitter marks up the Howdens price before passing it on to you, and you have no way of knowing what the original cost was.
SJB Trade Kitchens is the direct alternative. Steve Ball sells direct to homeowners – no trade account needed, no middleman, no hidden markups. You deal directly with Steve, you see the real price, and you make the decisions. Many Essex customers who have previously used Howdens through a fitter are surprised to discover how much more straightforward – and affordable – the direct supply route can be.
Many national suppliers offer 18mm carcasses but use thinner back panels to reduce weight and cost. At SJB, that is not a trade-off we are willing to make. Every cabinet features full 18mm solid backs – your fitter will notice the difference the second they lift the unit.
| Feature | Howdens Joinery | SJB Trade Kitchens |
|---|---|---|
| Who Can Buy | Trade account holders only | Direct to homeowners |
| Carcass Thickness | 18mm | 18mm |
| Back Panel | Thinner backs (typical) | 18mm Solid |
| Drawer Boxes | Standard drawer boxes | Blum Antaro as standard; Legrabox or dovetail solid oak available as premium upgrades |
| Bespoke Widths | Limited bespoke sizing | Included as standard |
| Pricing | Trade pricing – varies by account | Transparent, consistent pricing all year round |
| Support | Via your fitter/builder | Direct with Steve – 20 years experience |
| Delivery | Via trade account | From 10 working days |
Got a Howdens Quote? We Will Beat It.
Howdens pricing is trade-only and deliberately opaque – homeowners rarely know the real cost. SJB Trade Kitchens offers transparent, consistent pricing direct to homeowners, typically 30-50% cheaper than Howdens retail equivalent.
Send us your Howdens specification and Steve will come back with a like-for-like price. Most customers save significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, SJB Trade Kitchens offer bespoke sizing and design options for homeowners in Chelmsford and throughout Essex, ensuring your kitchen units fit perfectly into your property.
We deliver kitchens within 10 days to all Essex locations, including Southend-on-Sea, so you can plan your renovation without long waits.
I do not have a builder with a trade account. Can I still order from SJB Trade Kitchens in Basildon?
Absolutely. Unlike Howdens, SJB Trade Kitchens sell directly to homeowners with no trade account required, making it easy for Basildon residents to order their kitchens.
Yes, our bespoke sizing and robust 18mm backs make our kitchens ideal for fitting into period homes with unique layouts common in Colchester.
While our showroom is in Oldham, we serve Essex customers via phone and online support and can guide you through selections remotely to help with your decision.
From Design to Reality: See the Difference
Every SJB kitchen starts with a detailed CAD design so you can see exactly how your finished kitchen will look before a single unit is ordered. Here is what that looks like in practice.
The CAD design produced by Steve before the kitchen was ordered
The finished kitchen installed by the customer — exactly as designed
“Steve is absolutely epic! Really nice guy. 100% genuine and to be trusted. Really easy to work with. Couldn’t do enough and always on hand.
The kitchen was amazing quality and the kitchen looked exactly like the images he produced on his computer. The units came ready built which saved a lot of time! Even if you’re not a joiner it was really easy to assemble and fit.
The kitchen is great quality and a VERY competitive price! 100% recommended! Thank you so much!”
— Scott, verified SJB Trade Kitchens customer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What Our Customers Say
Request Your Free Quote Below
Already have a Howdens specification or quote from your fitter? Send it to us and Steve will come back with a direct price comparison – usually within 24 hours.
Made to Order and Delivered in 10 Working Days
Rigid Built Cabinets with Blum Soft Close as Standard
Nationwide Delivery Available
SJB Trade Kitchens | Unit N, Central Trading Estate, Coulton Close, Oldham, OL1 4EB
Phone: 0161 509 4221 | Email: info@sjball.uk
SJB Trade Kitchens is an independent kitchen specialist. All competitor names are used for comparative purposes only based on publicly available specifications. SJB Trade Kitchens is not affiliated with Howdens, Wren Kitchens, Magnet, or DIY Kitchens.
