_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Howdens
As the UK ’ s number one trade kitchen supplier , Howdens has been delivering thousands of high-quality products across kitchens , joinery and hardware since 1995 . Operating a successful trade-only model has helped the business to grow from 14 to over 800 depots across the UK and Europe . The combination of locally empowered depot management and a dedicated supply chain that can deliver an efficient and cost-effective in-stock product framework , has been crucial to the successful operation of Howdens ’ business model . The company only sells to trade partners with expertise in ensuring its products are fitted to the highest standard , in order to produce exceptional results right the way through to the final consumer .
Howdens ’ extensive product range is renowned for its exceptional quality . The company offers a 25-year guarantee on all cabinetry and its rigid cabinets were awarded a Which ? Best Buy in April 2021 . Additionally , a free bespoke design and planning service is available at every depot across the UK , allowing for a high level of adaptability and tailoring to meet the needs and preferences of each customer . Since its inception , the business has delivered more than six million kitchens across the UK , securing and maintaining an impressive market share of around 27 percent .
From its dedicated manufacturing factories in Howden and Runcorn , the company designs and manufactures over 4.5 million cabinets per year as well as cabinet frontals , worktops and skirting boards . Other products , including appliances , joinery , flooring and hardware , are bought from a range of trusted suppliers based around the world , meaning Howdens can offer all the necessary parts for a new kitchen to its customers .
The business takes its commitment to responsible purchasing very seriously and all potential suppliers must undergo a thorough risk assessment and provide evidence of satisfactory working methods . Howdens requires that its suppliers adhere to the company code of conduct and share sourcing information to maintain a level of oversight over its supply chains . The buyers and compliance team at Howdens have passed the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply ’ s Ethical Procurement and Supply training and the company organizes refresher training on modern slavery and anti-bribery as well as an online course on FSC and PEFC chain of custody standards and timber regulation .
Promoting sustainable behaviors in its supply chains and product design is crucial for mitigating the risks of interruption to continuity of supply and product relevance , thereby helping the business to grow . These sustainable behaviors are adopted right across the business from its material sourcing strategy through to its depot waste management and distribution fleet . By investing in UK manufacturing , Howdens is now able to produce new products locally as an alternative to importing them from Europe . This helps to support local communities and brings environmental benefits as a result of a shorter supply chain . For example , the business has achieved carbon-neutral status in its UK factories and zero waste to landfill in its production operations . Howdens is also recognized as a responsible purchaser by the Timber Trade Federation and is certified to operate by the Forest Stewardship Council , meaning that items purchased come from responsibly managed forests .
In terms of building a sustainable transport fleet , the company ’ s trucks go beyond the requirements of the latest emissions standards and the business invests in safety and energy-efficiency training for all of its drivers . All of Howdens ’ lorries which refuel at Raunds are powered by hydrogenated vegetable oil , which produces 90 percent less CO 2 per liter than diesel trucks , and the
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