The Best Debt Finance lenders in the UK
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For UK franchise buyers and operators, this guide compares loan periods and amounts, APRs, and terms across leading providers, with a focus on eligibility and fit. Amounts that could not be verified are left blank prices accurate as of 2025-10-07.
1. Funding Agent
Funding Agent Funding Agent is a leading provider of debt finance solutions in the UK, offering competitive rates and flexible terms for small and medium enterprises. It suits UK SMEs seeking clear options and predictable terms. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £150,000
- Min APR: 6.5%
- Max APR: 21.9%
- Loan Duration: 6–60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loans, Invoice Financing, Asset Financing
- Industries: Retail, Manufacturing, Technology
Pros
- Flexible loan options
- Competitive APR rates
- Quick approval process
Cons
- Limited to UK businesses
- Requires solid credit history
Sources: https://www.fundingagent.co.uk
2. Santander
Santander Santander offers a range of business loans supported by its banking network. Suitable for franchise buyers, property purchase or refinance, and working capital需要 security or assets. Known for flexibility and broker access, it can cater to various business needs. Here’s what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £2,000
- Max Amount: £25,000
- Min APR: 7.9%
- Max APR: 23.7%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans
- Industries: Finance, Retail, Energy
Pros
- Flexible repayment terms
- No interest for the first year on some products
Cons
- Interest rates may be high after introductory period
- Limited information online
Sources: https://www.santander.co.uk/corporate/solutions/finance/business-loans,https://www.iwoca.co.uk/small-business-loans/santander https://www.santander.co.uk/corporate/solutions/finance/business-loans,https://www.iwoca.co.uk/small-business-loans/santander
3. NatWest
NatWest NatWest offers small business loans with a range suitable for UK SMEs seeking flexible repayment options. These products support business growth, acquisitions, or cash flow needs and are often secured on property or other assets. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 10%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 12–84 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Small Business Loans
- Industries: Wholesale, Construction, Manufacturing
Pros
- High borrowing limits for small businesses
- Flexible repayment options
Cons
- Higher interest rates compared to some competitors
Sources: https://www.iwoca.co.uk/lenders/natwest-business-loan,https://www.natwest.com/business/loans-and-finance/small-business-loan.html https://www.iwoca.co.uk/lenders/natwest-business-loan,https://www.natwest.com/business/loans-and-finance/small-business-loan.html
4. British Business Bank
British Business Bank The British Business Bank provides government-backed finance solutions with a focus on supporting new and growing UK businesses. It offers a range of loan types that often require collateral or security and are suitable for SMEs seeking flexible options. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £500
- Max Amount: £25,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Start Up Loans, Growth Loans
- Industries: Startups, SMEs
Pros
- Government-backed loans
- Support for startups
Cons
- Strict eligibility criteria
- Limited loan products
Sources: https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/business-guidance/guidance-articles/finance/start-up-loan,https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/finance-options https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/business-guidance/guidance-articles/finance/start-up-loan,https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/finance-options
5. StepChange
StepChange StepChange focuses on debt management and relief services including advice and planning. It mainly assists individuals but also offers support to businesses dealing with serious financial difficulties. It is suited for organisations needing structured solutions and flexible repayment arrangements. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Varies based on service⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Debt Management Plans, Debt Advice
- Industries: Debt Management
Pros
- Free expert advice
- No service fees
Cons
- Focus primarily on debt management rather than lending
Sources: https://www.stepchange.org
6. Deal Direct
Deal Direct Deal Direct provides specialised secured lending options mainly for property finance and debt consolidation. These are suited for businesses seeking large-scale investment, refinancing, or debt restructuring. The focus is on secured products often facilitated via brokers. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £25,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 9.5%
- Max APR: 29%
- Loan Duration: 36–360 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Loans, Mortgages
- Industries: Real Estate, Finance
Pros
- Wide range of loan products
- Competitive rates for secured loans
Cons
- High broker fees on some products
Sources: https://www.dealdirectfinancial.co.uk/secured-loans/,https://www.dealdirectfinancial.co.uk/mortgages/mortgage-rates/ https://www.dealdirectfinancial.co.uk/secured-loans/,https://www.dealdirectfinancial.co.uk/mortgages/mortgage-rates/
7. Carrington Dean
Carrington Dean Carrington Dean is a firm specialising in personal insolvency services, helping individuals and companies restructure or resolve debt issues through structured solutions. It suits those needing legal and financial support for insolvency or debt relief. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Varies based on agreement⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Personal Insolvency Solutions
- Industries: Debt Relief
Pros
- Experts in insolvency
- Offers debt relief options
Cons
- Specializes only in debt solutions
8. Trust Deed Scotland
Trust Deed Scotland Trust Deed Scotland offers formally arranged Trust Deeds primarily for Scottish residents, aimed at helping them manage or write off unsecured debts. It supports individuals or businesses needing debt restructuring with professional guidance. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Typically 48 months⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Trust Deeds
- Industries: Debt Management
Pros
- Reduces most unsecured debts
- Government-backed solution
Cons
- Limited to Scottish residents
Sources: https://www.scotlanddebt.co.uk/trust-deed
9. AFA Insolvency Limited
AFA Insolvency Limited AFA Insolvency provides solutions for clients dealing with unaffordable or unmanageable debts, including repayment plans and debt relief options. It is suited for businesses or individuals seeking structured debt resolution services. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Varies based on arrangement⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Debt Relief Orders
- Industries: Insolvency, Debt Management
Pros
- Tailored debt solutions
- Regulated by industry standards
Cons
- Focus on insolvency options only
Sources: https://afainsolvency.co.uk
10. MoneySuperMarket
MoneySuperMarket MoneySuperMarket provides comparison tools for a wide range of financial products. It is suitable for businesses and individuals seeking transparent, easy-to-access options for debt consolidation and related financial services. Here's what to know:
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 0%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: Unknown⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Debt Consolidation Loans, Personal Loans
- Industries: Finance, Technology
Pros
- Extensive comparison options
- User-friendly platform
Cons
- No direct lending
Sources: https://www.moneysupermarket.com/loans/debt-consolidation-loan/
How to choose
Match loan size and APR to your budget, check eligibility, and balance speed against flexibility. Consider how repayments fit your franchise cash flow and seasonality. Review lender criteria, fees, and early repayment terms before applying. For a diverse range of options, understanding your purpose—whether asset-backed finance, unsecured loans, or specialised debt solutions—can help guide your choice. Consider whether a bank, broker, or specialist provider best suits your needs. Compare terms and flexibility to find the best fit for your financial situation and goals.
Conclusion
Matching the right debt finance provider depends on your purpose and comfort with different routes. Banks can offer straightforward, often secured loans suitable for property or large investments. Brokers provide access to a broader range of products, including unsecured options. Specialist lenders, such as debt relief services, focus on restructuring or insolvency needs. Always confirm current costs and terms with the lender; pricing may change. Funding Agent is a strong choice for SMEs that want quick comparisons across multiple options. Other providers suit larger amounts, asset-backed needs, or sector specialisms. Always confirm current costs and terms with the lender; pricing may change.
