Which? Trusted Traders has come a long way since 2013 when we launched a pilot programme with just 18 businesses.
The scheme, which has grown to a membership of more than 9,000, is now celebrating five years of endorsing reputable traders.
Which? set up Trusted Traders to help people choose the right trader for their needs and give good traders the recognition they deserve.
Several traders who’d been positively reviewed by customers on the former Which? Local site were approached to be the pioneers.
‘I jumped at the invitation [to join] and it was the best thing I have ever done. Everyone knows the Which? logo and as Which? is known as the people’s champion, the customers have faith in the trader.’
Tony Byrne, A Byrne Carpentry and Joinery, Trusted Trader since 2013 (pictured above, left)
‘I joined Which? Trusted Traders at the start of the pilot back in 2013. It was such a busy, exciting time talking to all these businesses about our brand new service and everyone absolutely loved it. So much so that the pilot was a huge success allowing us to continue and grow the service even more.’
Amy Jones, client relationship team leader, Trusted Traders (pictured above, right)
The first 18 businesses trialled the Trusted Traders assessment process, including credit checks and face-to-face interviews from trading standards professionals.
The assessment remains a key part of the scheme to this day, and only those who meet our high standards can become Which? Trusted Traders.
'I stay with Which? Trusted Traders because I think it adds further credibility to my business. It is a robust system backed by a great, trusted brand. You have a massive reputation to protect so don’t cut corners.'
Tim Mycroft, Mycroft Heating & Plumbing Ltd, Trusted Trader since 2013
'The success of Trusted Traders over the past five years is testament to the hard work put in by traders to pass the assessment and maintain high standards, to the dedication of my team in supporting them, and to the input of many thousands of customers who have taken the time to write reviews.'
Raj Kakar-Clayton, managing director, Trusted Traders
Get a profile on our website, full access to all Which? advice and reviews and a host of other benefits when you become a Trusted Trader.
Since 2014, the scheme has continually expanded to cover traders, trade associations and retail brands based across the UK.
The way we recognise traders has evolved, with the creation of Trusted Trader of the Month, and our involvement in the annual Which? Awards.
Thousands of customers have added their voices too, rating our endorsed traders to help other consumers make informed choices. Since day one we’ve moderated all the reviews and and continued to add checks to prevent abuse of the system.
‘Customer reviews are genuine and monitored. It’s great for both traders and customers, and it’s fair. I dedicate my endorsement to a lifelong customer, Mrs Pearce, who posted my first ever review on Which? Local. She sadly passed away this year.’
Anthony Sawczuk, Bourne Plumbing and Heating, Trusted Trader since 2013
‘I think client reviews are a fantastic way for new customers to find out more about myself and my company. I think it gives customers real peace of mind. Which? gave my company such a boost, I can’t thank them enough.’
Dave Newman, Newman’s Electricals Limited, Trusted Trader since 2013
Thank you to all our traders and customers for five successful years.
