Looking for a Howdens Alternative in Manchester?

Living in Manchester, you’re surrounded by a fantastic mix of architecture, from the classic Victorian terraces in Ancoats to the sleek, modern apartments rising up in Deansgate. When it comes to renovating, you need a kitchen that respects that character. I know many people head to the Howdens depot near Ancoats, but you often end up compromising with a standard, off-the-shelf solution that doesn’t quite fit your home’s unique footprint or your personal style. That’s where I offer a genuine, high-quality alternative. If you’ve been searching for the best alternative to Howdens kitchens, you’re in the right place.

I’m Steve, the owner of SJB Trade Kitchens. With over two decades in the kitchen industry, I set up my business to do things differently. I cut out the middleman and the big depot overheads to supply superior quality, custom-made kitchens directly to homeowners like you, for a price that’s often 30-50% less than the depot trade price. I believe everyone in Manchester deserves a kitchen that’s built to last and designed to perfection, without the inflated price tag.

You get a completely transparent price from day one. I don’t believe in the confusing ‘trade-only’ pricing you get from depots like Howdens. Their model relies on variable discounts and a builder’s markup, so you never truly know what the kitchen costs. I give you a clear, itemised quote with no hidden extras. For Manchester homeowners renovating anything from a Northern Quarter warehouse conversion to a family home in Chorlton, this honesty means you can budget with confidence and know you’re getting true value.

You’re buying a far superior product, built to last. The biggest difference is in the construction. My kitchens are built using 18mm rigid carcasses, including 18mm solid back panels. Howdens kitchens use a flimsy hardboard back which is notorious for bowing. In a city with such a mix of properties, from damp Victorian terraces to modern new-builds, having a robust, moisture-resistant cabinet is essential for longevity. My kitchens are simply built to a higher standard.

You benefit from a truly personal design service. When you deal with SJB, you deal directly with me, Steve. I’m not just a salesperson; I’m a kitchen expert with 20 years of experience. I’ll work with you on a free design that makes the most of your space, whether it’s a compact city apartment or a spacious suburban semi. You won’t get that level of dedicated expertise from a trade counter that’s designed to serve builders in a rush.

You have the freedom to choose your own fitter. Because I sell direct to you, you are in complete control. You can use your own trusted local tradesperson or I can recommend excellent fitters who I know and trust in the Manchester area. This avoids the common issue of being tied to your builder’s preferred supplier and their associated markup, giving you more control over your project and your budget.

In a city as vibrant and varied as Manchester, your kitchen needs to be more than just a pretty face; it has to be a workhorse. That’s why I’m obsessed with the structural integrity of my kitchens. The foundation of this quality is the 18mm solid back panels I use on all my carcasses. While depot-supplied kitchens like Howdens use flimsy 3-4mm hardboard that can warp and bow in the damp Manchester climate, my cabinets are built like tanks. For anyone living in a period conversion or a Victorian terrace in areas like Ancoats or Hulme, this resistance to damp and temperature changes is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

Another crucial detail is the hardware. A kitchen is a collection of moving parts, and they have to withstand constant use. That’s why I fit Blum soft-close hinges and drawer systems as standard. This isn’t an expensive upgrade; it’s my baseline for quality. Blum is the best in the business, renowned for its precision engineering and durability. It means your doors will always hang perfectly and your drawers will glide smoothly, even after years of daily use in a busy family kitchen in Chorlton-on-Medlock.

Finally, it’s about the core materials. My rigid-built carcasses are constructed from premium Egger and Kronospan board, right here in the UK. This isn’t the standard, mass-produced flat-pack you get from the big sheds. Each cabinet is made to order, arriving at your home as a solid, pre-assembled unit. This not only makes installation quicker and easier but also results in a far stronger, more durable kitchen. It’s a level of construction that respects the investment you’re making in your Manchester home.

Manchester’s incredible architectural diversity is what makes the city special. From the soaring ceilings of converted warehouses in the Northern Quarter to the quirky layouts of Victorian terraces in Beswick, standard-sized kitchen units just don’t cut it. This is where my made-to-order service comes into its own. I’m not restricted by a catalogue of set sizes. Need a shallower cabinet to fit around a chimney breast in an Ancoats terrace? Or a taller unit to make the most of the vertical space in a Deansgate apartment? I can make it.

This flexibility allows us to create a truly seamless, ‘fitted’ look that maximises every inch of your space. With over 300 different cabinet finishes available, we can also match the colour and style of your chosen doors perfectly. It’s a level of customisation that ensures your kitchen feels like an integral part of your home, not just a collection of boxes. The process starts with my free design service, where we can explore all these possibilities together.

When you choose SJB, you get a direct line to me, Steve. I personally oversee every project, from the initial design chat to the final delivery. You won’t be passed between departments or have to chase a busy trade counter for answers. I’m here to offer honest advice and ensure your project runs smoothly. My reputation across Manchester and beyond is built on this personal commitment.

I always encourage customers to come and see the quality for themselves. My showroom is at Unit N, Central Trading Estate, Coulton Close, Oldham, OL1 4EB, which is an easy drive and just 20 minutes from Manchester city centre. Here, you can feel the weight of the 18mm carcasses, see the flawless finishes, and operate the smooth Blum hardware. It’s a hands-on experience that gives you complete confidence in what you’re buying.

From my Oldham base, I regularly supply kitchens to clients throughout the city and its surrounding neighbourhoods. Whether you’re in Ancoats, Miles Platting, Newton Heath, Beswick, Ardwick, Hulme, or Chorlton-on-Medlock, I can provide a level of direct service and accountability that you simply won’t find at a large, impersonal trade depot.

Can homeowners buy from Howdens directly in Manchester?

No, you can’t. Howdens operates a strict trade-only policy at their Manchester depots, including the one near Ancoats. You must have a trade account or go through a builder, who will add their own markup to the final price. At SJB, I sell directly to homeowners, giving you full transparency and control.

How do your prices compare to Howdens?

My kitchens are typically 30-50% cheaper than a like-for-like kitchen from Howdens. I achieve this by having no expensive depots, no regional managers, and no complex discount structures. You get a straightforward, honest price for a superior quality, rigid-built kitchen.

Can I visit a showroom near Manchester?

Absolutely. My showroom is in Oldham, just a 20-minute drive from Manchester city centre at Unit N, Central Trading Estate, Coulton Close, OL1 4EB. You can visit any time to see the quality of the cabinets, doors, and hardware for yourself before you make a decision.

Do you deliver to Manchester?

Yes, I deliver to all parts of Manchester and the surrounding areas, including Ancoats, Hulme, and Chorlton-on-Medlock, on a daily basis. Your new kitchen will be delivered directly to your door, with all units arriving pre-assembled and ready for your fitter to install.

Not sure which style is right for you? Browse all six of our kitchen ranges below — click any image to see the full range and individual product options.

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.

“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 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 47 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ameer Latif 
 
30 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We will get back with a quote within 24 hours they say, 10 days, 3 emails with pictures, sizes and plans and not one reply.. Not even a we cant help you
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Fleetkleen UK 
 
26 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Top service fantastic quality kitchen supplied with fully built units at an amazing price that I’ve not found anywhere else, would highly recommend giving Steve a call, will need his services again very soon.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Naz K 
 
25 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Fantastic experience with Steve from start to finish. He designed an amazing kitchen in a small space and truly went above and beyond what I expected. He took the time to listen carefully to my ideas and requirements, and was never pushy throughout the process. His knowledge, creativity, and attention to detail really stood out at every stage. Everything was planned and executed with care, and he made sure even the smallest details were perfect. The end result is a beautifully designed, highly functional kitchen that I’m absolutely thrilled with. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Emma Bradshaw 
 
13 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
After visiting a few "big brand" kitchen places & being absolutely gob smacked at the prices, the pushy salesmen & the amazing "discounts" they claimed were on for "1 week only".... I went searching for a small local business. I found SJB on eBay initially & then popped along to his Instagram account to have a nosey at his products etc. I dropped him a message & got a reply pretty much straight away. I sent our measurements, needs & ideas & Steve got to work & brought our design to life! He worked fast & was extremely helpful. He made changes if we wanted them, he went hunting for a particular handle I wanted (a lot cheaper too as 1 company wanted £12 a handle, Steve found them for just £4) We visited his show room to make sure because we weren't being charged the earth, we weren't getting a cheap / flimsy product. Well we absolutely weren't! We had a slight issue with one of the cabinets being damaged upon arrival, spoke to Steve, who immediately ordered a replacement to be sent. Steve was contactable throughout, nothing was too much trouble, & he's just a genuine nice guy, who runs a fantastic small business. 100% recommend using SJB Trade Kitchens especially over the giant money grabbing companies!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Elizabeth Orbell 
 
21 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Steve designed and provided all the quality parts necessary for my fitter to make up this beautiful kitchen. All arrived promptly and any queries were responded to immediately and efficiently. Steve is highly professional and easy to get along with which makes a huge difference in our busy world! I would definitely recommend Steve and will use him on my next build. Thank you !
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Scott 
 
1 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Steve is absolutely epic! Really nice guy. 100% genuine & 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!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Natasha Conway 
 
25 March 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I cannot stress how happy I am with my kitchen from SJB. We didn’t had a great experience with our builder during the renovation of our house however the final kitchen made up for it. SJB offered high quality finishes at quick turnarounds and even made a custom made island which is better than I ever expected. I will be returning soon to SJB for my bedroom wardrobes!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Tina Walsall 
 
12 January 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I came across SJB on Ebay, and contacted Steve. He was very helpful in inviting us to his kitchen showroom to look at the various kitchens. This helped  a lot as he was on site to talk us through ideas and suggestions. We chose, what we thought, a relatively priced kitchen as it was for a rental property, but the finished result has been just amazing! It looks so expensive, even the fitter said it was very good quality for a fraction of what other places charge. Steve kindly designed the kitchen, gave us good ideas and was always available on the phone if we ever needed advice. I have never purchased a kitchen without the company providing a fitter as I have always doubted if the kitchen would fit how it should, but this has completely changed my perception. It has been flawless and friends and family have compared it to their much more expensive ones, saying this looks amazing and better than theirs! If you need a kitchen, with a gentleman that goes over and above, SJB is the place to go. You will not be disappointed, the whole process has been stress free thanks to Steve, I honestly cannot thank him enough for all his efforts and kindness. We hope to come back very soon!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 James Hunter 
 
23 December 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I've worked in the building trade for over 20 years, the kitchen supplied by Steven was a better quality then a Howdens or magnet kitchen and also a good bit cheaper. Steven's easy to deal with, everything arrived as quoted no problems no damaged items and on the exact day specified. Would highly recommend.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Alison Gregory 
 
13 November 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I first came across Steve on Ebay last year when I moved into my bungalow and kept hold of his details. Fast forward a year, I checked Google reviews and finally contacted him sending measurements/photos and went to meet him when on holiday nearby. Steve was so helpful and came up with the exact kitchen plan I had in my head, two other companies couldn't do this, despite visiting my home and meeting with them. Took me a while to find a joiner and after lots of emails, Whatsapp messages and calls, I could actually place the order. All delivered to North East Scotland, a few doors followed on as were out of stock, a couple of damaged items replaced and when I needed a corner post and dishwasher door replacement due to longer screws being used in error, Steve was only too happy to send them. It's a very good quality kitchen at a great price and I'm not planning on needing another, but if I did, I wouldn't hesitate on contacting SJB again. We got there in the end Steve, with hard work from my plasterer, joiner, plumber, electrician and flooring guys and I love my new kitchen, so thank you, hard to believe it's the same room ❤️
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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.