Best Lenders to Secure a 160k Short Term Loan
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 2026-02-12.
Funding Agent specialises in helping UK SMEs access and compare multiple business finance options quickly. It is suitable for businesses looking for clear, straightforward financing solutions with no collateral required. The provider offers a fast application process with flexible terms and a variety of repayment options.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 3–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured business loans, MCA Loans, Working capital
- Industries: UK SME's
Pros
- fastest and easiest application process
- No collateral required
Cons
- lower track record, only trading 1 year
Woodsford TradeBridge focuses on trade finance and supply chain funding solutions, providing flexible working capital for UK businesses. It is typically suited for SMEs needing funding tied to their trading activity or supply chains. The provider offers industry-specific support with adaptable repayment terms based on trade cycles.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £50,000
- Max Amount: £150,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 18%
- Loan Duration: 3-36 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Trade Finance, Supply Chain Funding
- Industries: Manufacturing, Wholesale
Pros
- Flexible terms
- Industry-specific support
Cons
- Higher rates for larger amounts
Ultimate Finance specialises in asset-based lending including invoice and asset finance for businesses. It suits SMEs focusing on improving cash flow through secured finance. The provider emphasises quick loan decisions and a range of asset-backed lending options.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £200,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 16%
- Loan Duration: 6-48 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Invoice Finance, Asset Finance
- Industries: Transport, Manufacturing
Pros
- Range of finance options
- Quick decisions
Cons
- Limited to asset-based solutions
Nucleus Commercial Finance offers a broad range of business lending, including short-term loans tailored for SMEs requiring quick access to funds. It is suitable for franchise buyers and operators needing flexible finance with clear terms. The provider prioritises fast approval and transparent fees.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £25,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 1-36 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Commercial Loans, Short-term Loans
- Industries: Healthcare, Retail
Pros
- Fast approval
- No hidden fees
Cons
- Higher APR for short-term
Funding Circle connects small businesses with a variety of lenders offering term and business loans. It is well-suited for SMEs seeking transparent, fee-free financing options with clear repayment plans. The platform facilitates access to multiple lenders through an online process focused on speed and convenience.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £7,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 4.9%
- Max APR: 16.9%
- Loan Duration: 6-60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loans, Business Loans
- Industries: IT Services, Professional Services
Pros
- No upfront fees
- Comprehensive lender network
Cons
- Limited to online operations
ThinCats specialises in secured loans for mid-sized SMEs, particularly for growth and acquisitions. It suits borrowers who can provide collateral and are seeking competitive rates with longer repayment periods. The lender focuses on structured funding solutions with tailored terms.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £100,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 5.5%
- Max APR: 19%
- Loan Duration: 12-60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Loans, Growth Funding
- Industries: Manufacturing, Logistics
Pros
- Lower rates for secured loans
- Focused on growth
Cons
- Strict eligibility criteria
Fleximize provides flexible funding options for SMEs including revenue-based financing and traditional business loans. It benefits businesses needing adaptable repayment schedules and quick funding access. The service suits franchise buyers looking for tailored finance solutions with variable terms.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 1.9%
- Max APR: 19.8%
- Loan Duration: 1-48 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Revenue-based Finance, Business Loans
- Industries: Retail, Tech Startups
Pros
- Flexible repayments
- Quick access
Cons
- Higher APR for longer terms
Capify provides short-term loans and merchant cash advances tailored to the needs of SMEs requiring fast capital. It is suitable for businesses prioritising quick funding with flexible repayment plans based on cash flow. The lender offers adaptable terms to support growth-oriented companies.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £150,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 3-12 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Merchant Cash Advances, Short-term Loans
- Industries: Hospitality, Retail
Pros
- Quick funding
- Flexible repayments
Cons
- Higher rates for short duration
MarketFinance offers business loans and invoice financing to help SMEs manage cash flow efficiently. It is suited for franchise buyers and operators needing flexible financing secured against receivables. The provider is known for a straightforward application process and competitive rates.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £150,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 1-36 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Invoice Financing, Business Loans
- Industries: Manufacturing, Technology
Pros
- Simple process
- Competitive rates
Cons
- Invoices required for financing
Just Cashflow provides flexible loan options with an emphasis on bridging loans and revolving credit facilities. It suits SMEs seeking adaptable funding solutions, particularly for short-term capital needs. The service offers options with no early repayment costs and flexible limits.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 7%
- Max APR: 24%
- Loan Duration: 3-60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Revolving Credit, Bridging Loans
- Industries: Construction, Professional Services
Pros
- No early repayment costs
- Flexible limits
How to choose
When choosing the best lender for securing a 160k short term loan, consider your business requirements such as loan amount, term length, and required speed of funding. Evaluate lenders' eligibility criteria, repayment flexibility, and whether collateral is needed. Look for transparent APR ranges and understand the fees involved. Prioritise lenders who align with your franchise's cash flow and seasonal patterns to ensure manageable repayments. Checking brokered access or direct lender options can also impact loan convenience and terms. Always compare the loan's fine print before applying to secure the most suitable offer.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lender depends on your specific business needs and loan purpose. Banks may offer traditional routes but can have stricter criteria and slower processing. Brokers provide access to multiple lenders, facilitating comparisons and quicker decisions. Specialists can offer tailored products for niche requirements like asset-backed or bridging loans. Funding Agent is a strong choice for SMEs seeking efficient comparison and quick access to multiple finance options. Always ensure the lender’s terms match your loan size and repayment expectations, especially for a 160 thousand pounds loan.
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