Damian Sheridan of Wren Contracts discusses the key starting points when it comes to choosing a kitchen supplier in housing projects.
When it comes to choosing a kitchen supplier for property development and social housing projects, developers and housebuilders are faced with decisions that can affect a project’s success and the satisfaction of future homeowners and residents. A kitchen is the heart of the home and plays an important part in a property’s appeal. With this in mind, developers should carefully consider several important factors when choosing a kitchen supplier, striking the right balance between quality, cost and reliability.
Product Range & Flexibility
An extensive product range is a key consideration for developers. A kitchen supplier that provides a wide range of options, catering to different budgets and design preferences, allows developers to meet the diverse needs of their market. Whether the project involves luxury high-rise apartments or affordable housing, the ability to choose from both ready-to-install and bespoke, made-to-order kitchens gives developers the flexibility to tailor solutions to specific project requirements.
Accessible kitchen designs are also an important factor. With a growing trend towards multi-generational living and the need for homes that accommodate individuals with limited mobility, developers should consider a supplier that can provide kitchens designed to meet these needs.
Quality & Workmanship
Quality is a top priority, and high standards of materials and craftsmanship should be non-negotiable when choosing a kitchen supplier. Suppliers that manufacture their products in-house can provide greater control over quality throughout the production process, which in turn reduces the risk of defects.
Long warranty periods are also a good indicator of quality. Kitchen suppliers that offer warranties extending beyond industry standards demonstrate confidence in the durability and reliability of their products.
Equally important is the installation process. A supplier with accredited installation teams, managed by dedicated site managers, gives greater reassurance that the finished product is produced to the highest standard.
Lead Times & Reliability
In the fast-moving world of property development, timing is everything. Delays in production, delivery or installation can lead to costly setbacks. Developers must therefore prioritise suppliers that offer reliable lead times and a strong track record of meeting deadlines. Suppliers who can provide swift call-off periods and rapid replacement of any necessary parts can be invaluable in keeping a project on schedule.
The supplier’s approach to logistics and delivery should also be flexible to the specific needs of each development site. A supplier that provides flexible delivery schedules, carried out by dedicated and knowledgeable teams that can work around the project’s timeline, can significantly reduce the risk of delays and project disruption.
Sustainability & Environmental Impact
As sustainability becomes a key focus in modern property development, the environmental practices of a kitchen supplier should be carefully considered. Developers are increasingly expected to deliver projects that are not only high quality but also environmentally responsible. Therefore, a supplier’s commitment to sustainability – such as the use of sustainable materials, waste reduction initiatives and their efforts to minimise carbon emissions – should be an important factor in the decision-making process.
Reputation and Track Record
Finally, a supplier’s reputation within the industry is a strong indicator of their reliability and performance. Suppliers who have a proven track record on similar projects, positive testimonials from developers, as well as homeowners, provide valuable insights into the supplier’s consistency, service quality and overall reliability.
There are large number of important factors which specifiers need to consider when choosing the right kitchen supplier. Housebuilders and developers should look at a mixture of product range, quality, reliability, sustainability and reputation during the decision-making process.
At the end of the day, choosing the right supplier adds significant value to property developments, providing long-term success in a competitive market.
Damian Sheridan is director of sales at Wren Contracts