📋 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 Newcastle - 18mm Rigid Units, Direct to Homeowners, Delivered in 10 Working Days.
Made to Order
Rigid Built
Nationwide Delivery
Blum Soft Close
Why Newcastle Homeowners Choose SJB Trade Kitchens Over Howdens
Newcastle upon Tyne is a city rich in history and character, with a diverse range of property types from classic Victorian terraces in Heaton and Jesmond to modern flats along the Quayside. Homeowners in this vibrant area demand kitchen solutions that match the quality and style of their homes, but also value convenience and cost-effectiveness. While Howdens is a well-known name in kitchen supply, many Newcastle homeowners are discovering that SJB Trade Kitchens offers a superior alternative tailored to their needs.
Local Property Types and Neighbourhoods
The housing stock in Newcastle ranges widely. Areas like Jesmond and Gosforth feature spacious family homes with traditional layouts, requiring kitchens that can be customised to fit unique spaces. Meanwhile, neighbourhoods such as Byker and Fenham have a mix of older terraces and council housing, where homeowners often seek durable yet affordable kitchen options. The Quayside and city centre appeal to professionals living in apartments that need clever storage solutions and bespoke sizing.
This variety in homes creates a demand for kitchens that can be tailored precisely, not just standard sizes. SJB Trade Kitchens recognises this and provides bespoke sizing options to fit every room perfectly, unlike many mass-market suppliers.
Howdens Trade-Only Model: A Challenge for Newcastle Homeowners
Howdens operates on a trade-only basis, meaning homeowners must go through a builder, fitter, or trade account holder to order their kitchens. For many Newcastle residents, this creates unnecessary complications. Finding reliable tradespeople can be time-consuming and costly, delaying projects and inflating budgets. It also reduces control over the process and pricing transparency.
Because Howdens does not sell directly to homeowners, there can be confusion about product availability, lead times, and pricing. Homeowners often find themselves at the mercy of their trade contacts, who may add costs or delay orders. This is particularly frustrating for those who want to manage their kitchen projects independently or are undertaking renovations themselves.
SJB Trade Kitchens Advantages for Newcastle Homeowners
SJB Trade Kitchens offers a clear alternative with benefits that address these common pain points. Here are key reasons why Newcastle homeowners prefer SJB over Howdens:
- Direct Sales to Homeowners – SJB sells kitchens directly to homeowners with no middleman or trade account required. This means you can order your kitchen yourself, gaining full control over the process.
- Bespoke Sizing – Unlike standard kitchen suppliers, SJB provides bespoke sizing options. Whether your kitchen space has unusual dimensions or you want to maximise storage, SJB can tailor cabinets to fit perfectly.
- 18mm Backs – SJB uses sturdy 18mm backs on cabinetry for enhanced durability and a premium feel. This is a step above many competitors who use thinner materials.
- 10-Day Delivery – Newcastle homeowners benefit from a fast 10-day delivery service, meaning your kitchen arrives quickly without long waits that stall renovation projects.
- Transparent Pricing – SJB offers clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs. Many Newcastle customers find SJB to be 30-50% cheaper than Howdens, saving significant amounts throughout the year.
These advantages combine to create a seamless, affordable, and flexible kitchen buying experience. Homeowners in Newcastle can shop with confidence knowing they are getting quality products suited to their homes without the hassle of trade-only restrictions.
Steve in Altrincham and the Oldham Showroom
Though based outside Newcastle, SJB Trade Kitchens offers excellent customer service across the North of England, including the Newcastle area. Steve, located in Altrincham, is available to assist homeowners with enquiries and bespoke requirements. The Oldham showroom provides a convenient location for those who want to see kitchen styles and finishes in person before ordering. Customers can also contact SJB by phone on 0161 509 4221 for expert guidance and support.
Conclusion
Newcastle homeowners seeking kitchen solutions face unique challenges due to the diversity of local properties and the limitations of trade-only suppliers like Howdens. SJB Trade Kitchens stands out as a reliable, cost-effective, and flexible alternative that puts homeowners in control. Offering bespoke sizing, 18mm backs, rapid delivery, and transparent pricing with no trade account needed, SJB is transforming how kitchens are bought and installed in the Newcastle area. Take the stress out of your kitchen project by choosing SJB Trade Kitchens 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 Newcastle 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 sells directly to homeowners in Newcastle with no trade account or middleman required.
SJB offers a fast 10-day delivery service to Newcastle, ensuring kitchens arrive promptly.
Absolutely, SJB specialises in bespoke sizing to fit unique kitchen spaces common in older Newcastle homes.
SJB kitchens are typically 30-50% cheaper than Howdens with transparent pricing all year round.
Customers can visit the SJB showroom in Oldham or contact Steve in Altrincham for assistance.
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.
