We’ll recommend local showrooms whose kitchens cost similar to places like Howdens, Wickes & Wren, but are higher quality & will last longer. This even applies when the chain store units are in the sale.
These showrooms are also usually better value than the chains for worktops & appliances. In fact, their prices tend to be similar to online.
Plus, they charge much less than the chains for fitting. Their average fitting price is just £1,300 which is similar to what builders charge.
“We’ve been very impressed with the service they gave and the value for money compared to B&Q”
Karen Wilkins, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire
Here are some examples of the kitchens these showrooms offer:
How can a small showroom be better value than the chains?
It’s all down to overheads. Small showrooms have tiny overheads compared to the chains. Unlike the chains, they don’t have huge superstores to run or multi million pound TV adverts to pay for. Therefore, they can afford to offer you a much higher quality kitchen than the chains, for a similar price.
Surely the chains will be cheaper if their units are in the sale?
No – because their sales are fake. The chains try to mislead consumers into thinking they’re getting a bargain by inflating their prices so they can then knock 50% off.
Don’t let the chains pressurise you into making a quick decision by telling you their sale ends in a few days. Remember, their sales are fake. Plus, buying a kitchen takes time & isn’t something you can do in a few days.
Isn’t the cheapest way to buy a kitchen via a builder?
No – although builders will tell you they get 75% off places like Howdens & will save you a fortune, in reality, the prices builders quote is usually similar to the chains..
Why are these units higher quality than places like Howdens, Wickes & Wren?
Gloss door material:
The gloss doors are mostly the high quality painted & lacquered or acrylic types. These have a smooth, reflective finish. In contrast, places like Howdens, Wickes & Wren mainly sell the low quality foil, PVC, PET or vinyl wrapped types. These have a bobbly, unreflective finish. The other problem with these is they peel.
Cabinet backs:
Showroom base units have solid 18mm backs for strength & durability. In contrast, the base units places like Howdens & the chains sell have much thinner 3 or 6mm backs which soon bow under the weight of the worktops.
Cabinet edging:
Showroom cabinets have impact resistant PVC or ABS edging to protect the delicate front edges from chips & damage. In contrast, places like Howdens, Wickes & Wren come with melamine edging which offers little or no protection.
Density of the chipboard used to make the cabinets:
The denser the chipboard, the more durable the cabinet is. Showroom cabinets tend to be made from high density chipboard. In contrast, places like Howdens, Wickes & Wren tend to be made from cheaper, low density chipboard. The problem with low density chipboard is it tends to bow over time.
Get a FREE QUOTE