📋 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 Leicester - 18mm Rigid Units, Direct to Homeowners, Delivered in 10 Working Days.
Made to Order
Rigid Built
Nationwide Delivery
Blum Soft Close
Why Leicester Homeowners Choose SJB Trade Kitchens Over Howdens
Leicester is a city known for its diverse property styles, from traditional Victorian terraces around Clarendon Park to modern apartments in the city centre and spacious family homes in Oadby and Knighton. When it comes to kitchen renovations, homeowners in Leicester seek quality, affordability, and convenience. While Howdens has long been a popular choice for kitchen supplies, many Leicester homeowners are discovering the benefits of choosing SJB Trade Kitchens as an alternative.
The Challenge with Howdens Trade-Only Model for Homeowners
Howdens operates primarily as a trade-only supplier. This means homeowners must have a builder or kitchen fitter with a trade account to place orders. For many Leicester residents, this adds an extra layer of complexity, delays, and costs to their kitchen projects. If you do not already have a trusted trade professional, sourcing one and coordinating your order through them can be frustrating and time-consuming. This model often leads to higher prices because of trade markups and less control over your kitchen order.
Furthermore, if you want to make changes or add bespoke features, you need to communicate through your fitter, which can slow down the process and increase the risk of errors. For homeowners who prefer to manage their own projects or who want transparent pricing without hidden trade premiums, Howdens trade-only approach is a significant limitation.
SJB Trade Kitchens Advantages for Leicester Homeowners
SJB Trade Kitchens offers a compelling alternative that removes these barriers by selling directly to homeowners in Leicester and across the UK. You do not need a trade account or a builder to place your order with SJB. This direct access empowers homeowners to take full control of their kitchen renovation projects, saving both time and money.
One of the standout features of SJB Trade Kitchens is the use of 18mm thick kitchen cabinet backs, which provide enhanced durability and stability compared to thinner alternatives. This detail demonstrates SJBs commitment to quality and long-lasting kitchens that stand up to everyday use.
Bespoke sizing is another key advantage. Leicester homes, especially in older neighbourhoods like Stoneygate or Aylestone, often have kitchens with non-standard dimensions. SJB offers bespoke sizing options that allow you to tailor cabinets to fit awkward spaces perfectly, something often restricted or expensive with Howdens.
SJB also offers a fast turnaround with a standard 10-day delivery timeframe. This speed is ideal for homeowners eager to complete their projects without long waits. Additionally, SJBs pricing model is transparent and straightforward. Unlike Howdens, which can be 30-50% more expensive and includes trade markups, SJB provides competitive prices all year round with no hidden fees. You always know exactly what you are paying for.
Local Property Types and Neighbourhoods in Leicester
Leicester boasts a variety of property types, including Edwardian and Victorian houses in Clarendon Park and Stoneygate, post-war semis in Knighton Fields, and new build developments in Hamilton and Evington. Many of these homes have unique kitchen layouts that require flexible solutions. SJB Trade Kitchens caters to these needs with bespoke sizing and a wide range of styles that blend seamlessly with both period and contemporary homes.
For example, many Victorian homes in Clarendon Park have smaller kitchens with awkward corners and limited space. SJBs ability to customise cabinet sizes means homeowners can maximise storage and functionality without compromising style.
New builds in areas like Hamilton benefit from SJBs modern, cost-effective kitchen ranges, allowing homeowners to fit out their kitchens with quality units without exceeding their budgets.
Why Choose SJB Over Howdens in Leicester?
- No Middleman Needed: Homeowners can order directly without a builder or trade account.
- Bespoke Sizing: Cabinets tailored to fit unique kitchen layouts common in older Leicester homes.
- 18mm Cabinet Backs: Enhanced durability compared to standard options.
- 10-Day Delivery: Fast turnaround helps keep renovation projects on schedule.
- Transparent Pricing: Competitive costs year-round, typically 30-50% cheaper than Howdens.
Choosing SJB Trade Kitchens means you avoid the hassle of needing a trade account and the extra costs that come with the trade-only model. You gain control, flexibility, and value for money, making your kitchen renovation in Leicester a smoother and more affordable experience.
How to Get Started with SJB Trade Kitchens
If you are in Leicester and considering a kitchen upgrade, SJB Trade Kitchens is ready to help. With a showroom located in Oldham and knowledgeable staff like Steve from Altrincham available by phone on 0161 509 4221, you can get expert advice and place your order with confidence. SJBs friendly and professional service ensures you get the kitchen you want without the typical trade barriers.
In summary, SJB Trade Kitchens is the preferred alternative for Leicester homeowners who want quality, bespoke kitchens delivered quickly and affordably with no need for a trade account or middleman. Discover how SJB can transform your kitchen renovation today.
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 Leicester 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 allows homeowners in Leicester to order directly without needing a builder, fitter, or trade account, making the process straightforward and accessible.
Absolutely. SJB offers bespoke sizing options that accommodate the unique and often non-standard kitchen layouts found in Victorian and Edwardian homes around Clarendon Park.
SJB Trade Kitchens provides a standard 10-day delivery timeframe to Leicester, ensuring a quick turnaround for your kitchen renovation.
Yes, SJB Trade Kitchens is typically 30-50% cheaper than Howdens and offers transparent pricing with no hidden trade account fees.
While the showroom is in Oldham, you can contact Steve from Altrincham by phone at 0161 509 4221 for expert advice and guidance tailored to Leicester homeowners.
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.
