Pontefract kitchen business set for £390m takeover
A South Kirkby-based kitchen business employing more than 550 people across West Yorkshire is set to change hands in a deal worth £390 million.
The parent company of DIY Kitchens has agreed to be acquired by Howdens, the trade kitchen supplier, subject to regulatory approval.
Founded by the Ellis family and tracing its history back to 1982, DIY Kitchens sells directly to consumers through its online platform, offering self-service planning, design and ordering tools.
The company manufactures kitchens to order and serves customers across the UK.
Howdens said the acquisition will allow it to expand its reach beyond its traditional trade customer base by reaching homeowners buy kitchens directly online.
Following completion of the transaction, DIY Kitchens will continue to operate as a standalone online-only business focused on non-trade customers, separate from Howdens' larger trade-only operation.
Andrew Livingston, chief executive of Howdens, said the businesses shared a number of characteristics, including investment in manufacturing, vertically integrated operations and entrepreneurial cultures.
"We have great respect for the innovative business model they have built, and we look forward to supporting the business's continued growth and investing behind its next phase of development."
DIY Kitchens employs more than 550 people in the Wakefield and Leeds postcode area.
Howdens operates manufacturing sites in Runcorn, Cheshire, and Howden, East Yorkshire.
Founded by the Ellis family and employing more than 550 people across the Wakefield and Leeds postcode area, DIY Kitchens generated revenue of £136m and operating profit (EBIT) of £37m in 2025, according to Howdens.
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