Let’s talk about the price. Magnet presents itself with a ‘trade’ heritage, but their pricing model is firmly in the retail camp. The cost of their large, glossy showrooms, extensive marketing, and corporate structure is built into every kitchen they sell. This results in an inflated price for what is often a standard, mass-produced product. You’re not just buying a kitchen; you’re paying for their overheads.

My approach at SJB is completely different. I operate from a modest, efficient workshop and showroom, keeping my overheads low. This allows me to offer you genuine trade prices, which are typically 30-50% lower than what you’ll find at Magnet. There are no seasonal ‘sales’ or fake discounts here, just honest, transparent pricing for a high-quality, rigid-built kitchen. You get more for your money, simple as that.

A kitchen is a long-term investment, and the quality of the materials and construction is paramount. While Magnet offers a range of products, many of their standard kitchens are based on 16mm carcasses, often supplied flat-packed. This can compromise the long-term rigidity and durability of your kitchen units.

At SJB, I build every kitchen to a standard I’m proud to put my name to. All my carcasses are constructed from 18mm Egger board, a premium material known for its strength and longevity. They are delivered to you rigid-built, with solid backs and Blum soft-close hinges and drawers as standard. This isn’t an ‘upgrade’; it’s my baseline for quality. It ensures your kitchen will stand the test of time, providing a robust foundation for years to come.

Magnet offers a degree of customisation, but it often comes at a premium and is limited to their more expensive ranges. For most of their kitchens, you’re restricted to standard off-the-shelf cabinet sizes. This means you’re forced to compromise with filler panels and wasted space in a kitchen that isn’t a perfect rectangle. Why should you have to adapt your dream kitchen to fit their standard boxes?

At SJB, true customisation is standard. I build every cabinet to your exact measurements, right down to the millimetre. This means no awkward gaps, no unnecessary filler panels, and a kitchen that makes perfect use of every inch of your space. With over 300 carcass colours and multiple door styles, you get a truly bespoke kitchen without the bespoke price tag. It’s your kitchen, built for your home, not for a catalogue.

When you walk into a Magnet showroom, you’re entering a corporate retail environment. You’ll likely deal with a salesperson who is part of a large team, and who may not be the same person you speak to next time. It can be an impersonal experience where you feel like just another number in a sales target.

When you come to SJB, you deal directly with me, Steve. From the initial design consultation to the final delivery, I’m your single point of contact. I have over 20 years of experience dedicated solely to kitchens, and I’m passionate about getting the details right. You’re welcome to visit our showroom to see the quality for yourself and have a proper chat about your project, with no pressure or sales tactics.

Is Magnet a trade-only supplier?

Magnet used to be a trade-focused brand, but now they are very much a retail-facing business with prices to match. At SJB, I offer genuine trade prices directly to the public, ensuring you don’t pay the inflated costs associated with high-street showrooms.

What is the difference in cabinet quality?

I build my kitchens to last using 18mm Egger board for all carcasses, which are delivered to you rigid-built. This is a step up in quality and durability from many of the standard 16mm or flat-pack options offered by large retail chains. I believe in building things properly from the start.

Will I save money by choosing SJB over Magnet?

Absolutely. My supply-only model and genuine trade pricing mean my customers typically save between 30-50% compared to Magnet’s retail prices. You get a higher quality, custom-built kitchen for significantly less money by avoiding their showroom overheads and retail markups.

Can I get a custom-sized kitchen?

Yes. Unlike Magnet, where you are often restricted to standard dimensions, I can manufacture cabinets to any height, width, or depth you require. This ensures a perfect fit for your space without the need for unsightly filler panels, giving you a truly bespoke result.

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.