Any advice on Howdens kitchens?

[cherrybug]

We are building an extension and will be getting a new kitchen (L shaped with an island). Our builder wants us to go with Howdens and keeps putting us off other places we suggest (Wren for example).

As Howdens don't have an itemised price list it all seems like a bit of a racket to me, where three different people could spend different amounts for the exact same kitchen depending on the 'discount' their builder gets. They've given us an 'estimate' based on the design they did which seems expensive. Though maybe it's just a starting point for negotiation.

I have also looked at DIY kitchens but just don't know where to start and would be terrified of getting it wrong. We are in Scotland so can't go to see their showroom.

So my questions are - are Howdens kitchens good and how do you make sure you get the best deal with them?

You can certainly see from this thread now howdens operate.
I'm sure some customers do get a decent deal however they are notoroius for needing to be negotiated down.

It reminds me of years ago I needed a new shower pump. I went to a company and they said I needed a trader but it was say £150.
I went to a plumber and said I needs to fit this thing and he said... Tell them my name and you'll get a "discount" °so I went back and said his name. They wanted to then charge me £30 MORE.

£30 MORE

Just makes you loose all... Trust.

@cherrybug. Thank you for your reply! Time has gone so fast! I'm recovering from an accident I had last year, so once again the kitchen has taken a back seat.

Finding a fitter around here is like finding a golden hens tooth with diamanté inserts!!

But I'll get there and all these threads & posts/pictures help!!

Thanks again!