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.

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 13–6mm 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

Related Comparisons

Wren vs Magnet Kitchens  |  Howdens vs Magnet Kitchens  |  Howdens vs DIY Kitchens  |  Howdens Alternative  |  Wren Kitchens Alternative

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.

“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

 
 
 
 
  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.