When it comes to choosing the perfect kitchen, many homeowners find themselves torn between popular suppliers like Howdens and Wren Kitchens. Both brands offer a wide range of styles and options, boasting strong reputations in the UK market. However, the devil is in the details: price, build quality, bespoke sizing, and customer experience vary significantly between the two.

As kitchen experts, SJB Trade Kitchens takes an unbiased look at these differences, helping you make an informed decision. Positioned as the knowledgeable referee in this comparison, SJB Trade Kitchens offers a compelling third option that addresses the shortcomings found in Howdens and Wren Kitchens.


Feature Howdens Wren Kitchens SJB Trade Kitchens
Price level High (standard trade pricing) Moderate to high 30-50% cheaper than Howdens & Wren
Back panel thickness 3-6mm hardboard 8-12mm hardboard 18mm solid Egger/Kronospan board
Carcass construction Mostly flat-pack, less rigid Rigid and flat-pack available Rigid, factory-built units
Bespoke sizing Limited, mostly standard sizes Limited; add-on trims for adjustment Made to order, bespoke sizing standard
Delivery time 2-4 weeks (trade only) 2-4 weeks From 10 working days
Can homeowners buy direct? No (trade only) Yes Yes
Showroom pressure sales High pressure at trade counters High pressure at showrooms Consultative, no hard sell
Drawer boxes standard Basic soft-close Soft-close standard Blum Antaro soft-close standard; Legrabox & solid oak dovetail upgrades

While Howdens is a favourite of many tradespeople due to its trade-only business model, this exclusivity comes at a cost for homeowners. The pricing is generally higher, reflecting their trade pricing structure, which is not always justifiable given the quality of materials used. For instance, their back panels are thin, typically 3-6mm hardboard, which can compromise long term durability.

Additionally, Howdens carcasses are often flat-pack and can lack the rigid construction benefits found in higher-end kitchens. Their limited bespoke sizing options can lead to awkward gaps or trimming costs, and the pressure felt by customers at trade counters can be off-putting for those unfamiliar with how trade businesses operate.

Wren Kitchens markets heavily towards homeowners, but this comes with its own issues. While their products come with thicker backs than Howdens (8-12mm), these are still hardboard rather than solid backed. Wren offers both rigid and flat-pack ranges; the flat-pack options offer average rigidity, which can affect how the kitchen wears over time. Their approach to bespoke sizing is limited, relying primarily on add-on trims for fitting challenging spaces rather than genuine customization.

Moreover, Wren’s showroom experience, though expansive, is frequently reported to involve pressure sales tactics that can frustrate customers wanting an honest, hands-off approach. Pricing is often mid-to-high range but doesn’t always reflect the quality or sophistication of the build, especially compared to bespoke options.

SJB Trade Kitchens offers a compelling alternative by combining craftsmanship with competitive pricing. Unlike Howdens and Wren, SJB uses 18mm solid back panels from trusted suppliers like Egger and Kronospan, enhancing durability and long-term strength. Units are factory-built with a rigid construction method rather than basic flat-pack, elevating quality and longevity. Bespoke sizing is standard, ensuring your kitchen fits perfectly without the need for unsightly fillers or trims.

Additionally, SJB provides Blum soft-close drawers as standard, with premium upgrade options like Legrabox and solid oak dovetail drawer boxes available. Deliveries start from just 10 working days, and homeowners can buy direct—no trade account or middleman needed. Located in Oldham, Greater Manchester, their showroom and consultative approach means no pressure sales, just honest advice and expert service on your terms.

“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”

Frequently Asked Questions



Can homeowners purchase Howdens or Wren Kitchens directly?


Howdens exclusively serve tradespeople and do not allow direct purchases from homeowners. Wren Kitchens welcomes direct homeowners orders. SJB Trade Kitchens also allows direct sales, bridging the gap between trade-quality kitchens and public accessibility.

How do the build qualities compare between the three?


Howdens use thin back panels and flat-pack builds, Wren Kitchens improve on the back panel thickness but still use hardboard; they offer both rigid and flat-pack carcasses. SJB Trade Kitchens use thick 18mm solid back panels with factory-built rigid units for superior strength and longevity.

Is bespoke sizing available?


Howdens and Wren Kitchens mostly rely on standard sizes with minimal customization. SJB provides made-to-order kitchens with bespoke sizing as standard to perfectly fit your space without compromise.

What about pricing differences?


Howdens tends to be the most expensive due to its trade pricing model. Wren Kitchens are moderate to high priced. SJB Trade Kitchens undercut both with prices 30-50% lower while delivering superior quality and service.

Are there showroom pressure sales to be aware of?


Both Howdens and Wren showrooms can exert high-pressure sales tactics, which many customers find off-putting. SJB Trade Kitchens pride themselves on a consultative, no-pressure environment focused on client satisfaction and clarity.


From Design to Reality — A Real Customer Kitchen

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.

SJB Trade Kitchens CAD design render - Scott kitchen view 1

The CAD design produced by Steve before the kitchen was ordered

Finished SJB Trade Kitchens installation - Scott kitchen photo 5

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

Got a Quote from Howdens or Wren Kitchens? Let Steve Take a Look.

Upload your quote below and Steve will come back with a like-for-like comparison — usually within 24 hours. Call 0161 509 4221 or use the form.


Not sure where to start? Just drop your details below or upload a rough sketch or floor plan. I’ll give you a ring to talk through the best layout for your home — no sales pressure, just honest trade advice from someone who’s been in kitchens for 20 years.

Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 10 files.

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.