Lots of people will have had both bad an good experiences from almost every company going, and remember, most people are more likely to shout about the bad than the good!
I work for a fairly big company in Kitchens and bathrooms, and I have the following advice:
1. Get a couple of quotes for both goods and labour, but make sure you are comparing like for like, companies may have different quality good, so going for items that 'look the same' may not be a proper comparison, and the cheapest option may not always be the best
2. Again with fitting, the cheapest isn't always the best. The fitter may be cutting corners to get you that price, which may affect your bathroom long term. Also, as dizdazdoz said, the better fitters will probably have the longer lead times. Also check they are Part P registered for electrics, and make sure you get the certificate afterwards. You are also well within your rights to ask to see previous work, even if its just photos. Some will have recommendation letters too.
3. Check what guarantees you get with both product and fitting, so if something does go wrong (it can and will happen, even with the best product and the best fitters) you're covered afterwards. Private fitters may not offer a written guarantee, but you need to know they'll be there for you if the worst does happen!
Hopefully this will help!!
