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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in trade sales, customer service, and stock control.
- Company: Join Howdens, a top UK apprenticeship employer with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Earn £15,704, enjoy paid holidays, and receive generous staff discounts.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with real responsibilities and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Eager learners with great communication skills and a proactive attitude.
- Other info: Complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship with dedicated support.
Overview
Howdens Aldridge, United Kingdom – Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
Howdens is one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship employers, recognised among the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers since 2022. The apprenticeship combines practical depot experience with high-quality off-the-job training delivered by an approved apprenticeship training provider.
What You’ll Gain
This 12–15 month apprenticeship provides hands-on experience across key depot areas including customer service at the trade counter, sales and business development, stock control, and kitchen planning. You will be supported by your Depot Manager, a dedicated mentor, and the in-house Learning and Development team to grow in confidence and capability.
- Learn how to deliver exceptional service and build strong relationships with trade customers both in person and over the phone
- Build skills in serving and selling to customers on the trade counter, ensuring timely and efficient product delivery
- Gain product knowledge and advise customers on kitchen, bedroom and joinery ranges, identify new sales opportunities and help drive depot growth
- Learn stock control and warehousing principles, maintain stock levels, and follow health and safety regulations
- Grow your confidence and communication skills as part of a close-knit team in a fast-paced depot
- Be supported to complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship, including English and Maths if required
Responsibilities
- Deliver exceptional service to trade customers in person and by phone
- Assist at the trade counter with selling and servicing customers
- Support stock control and warehousing activities to maintain accurate stock levels
- Participate in the structured development programme and depot-based activities
What We’re Looking For
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Great communication skills and a customer-focused mindset
- Proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and use initiative
- Good organization and time management
- A genuine interest in developing skills and growing a career
- The right to work in the UK
Apprenticeship Details
- Apprenticeship Standard: Level 2 Trade Supplier
- Duration: Typically 12–15 months (including End Point Assessment)
- Training: On-the-job experience and off-the-job learning
- Support: Mentor, depot team, learning and development team, and external apprenticeship provider
- Qualifications: Functional Skills in English and Maths (if needed)
Rewards And Benefits
- Annual salary: £15,704
- Paid holiday entitlement
- Matched contribution pension scheme
- Team incentives and social events
- Generous staff discount on Howdens products
About Howdens: Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, trusted by over 460,000 trade professionals. With more than 900 depots and a growing presence across Europe, we’re a business built on entrepreneurial spirit and strong local relationships. If you need any adjustments to our recruitment process, email apprenticeships@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we’ll help.
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Trade Sales and Service Apprentice employer: Howdens
Contact Detail:
Howdens Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Howdens. Understand their values, products, and what makes them tick. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. Focus on common questions like why you want to be a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice. The more comfortable you are talking about yourself and your skills, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! When you’re in the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through. Talk about your passion for customer service and how you love helping people. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their team culture, so be yourself!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship and what we’re looking for. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to kickstart your career with Howdens!
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your excitement for the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role shine through. We want to see that you're eager to learn and ready to kickstart your career with us!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for. Mention your attention to detail, communication skills, and any relevant experience that shows you’re a great fit for our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and get straight to the heart of why you want to join Howdens as an apprentice.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Howdens and their products. Familiarise yourself with their kitchen, bedroom, and joinery ranges. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves customer service, practice how you communicate your thoughts clearly and effectively. You might want to prepare a few examples of how you've successfully interacted with customers or resolved issues in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Think of instances where you've taken the initiative, whether in school, work, or personal projects. Be ready to share these examples during the interview to highlight your proactive mindset and eagerness to learn.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, team dynamics, or future career opportunities. It shows you're engaged and serious about the apprenticeship.
