Best Lenders to Secure a Business Loan Over 10 Years
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 comparing multiple business finance options for UK SMEs. It is typically suitable for franchise buyers and small businesses seeking fast access to unsecured loans. The platform offers a straightforward, brokered approach with quick eligibility matching and flexible repayment options without needing collateral.
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
Funding Circle operates as a peer-to-peer lending platform focused on small business finance. It suits franchise and small business borrowers aiming for unsecured loans with transparent terms. Borrowers benefit from marketplace flexibility and absence of early repayment fees, though APRs may vary.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 25%
- Loan Duration: 6–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Peer-to-Peer Loans, Small Business Loans
- Industries: Manufacturing, Construction
Pros
- Peer-to-peer lending model
- No early repayment fees
Barclays provides a broad range of bank-backed financial products including business loans tailored for SMEs. It is often suitable for franchise buyers needing secured or unsecured loans with reliable and predictable terms. Borrowers should expect structured repayment plans and standard underwriting processes.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 3.5%
- Max APR: 19%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Traditional Business Loans, Lines of Credit
- Industries: Hospitality, Real Estate
Pros
- Established bank
- Wide range of services
Lloyds Bank offers customised business financial solutions including long-term loans for SMEs. It is appropriate for franchise owners and established businesses looking for tailored products with varied security options. The bank provides moderate flexibility with careful underwriting and potential fees.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £300,000
- Min APR: 4.9%
- Max APR: 18.5%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Corporate Financing
- Industries: Retail, Healthcare
Pros
- Tailored financial solutions
- Reputable brand
NatWest provides a selection of business loans aimed at supporting growth among UK SMEs. It generally suits franchise buyers and growing businesses seeking flexible financing with both secured and unsecured options. Services focus on accessibility and adaptable terms with some restrictions.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 3.9%
- Max APR: 21%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Small Business Loans, Working Capital Loans
- Industries: Agriculture, Media
Pros
- Strong customer service
- Flexibility
Cons
- Certain restrictions apply
HSBC offers a wide array of business loans suitable for various stages of business development. It fits franchises and SMEs requiring commercial and trade financing with global support. Clients can expect a broad product range, though applications may involve more complex processes.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £1,000,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 22%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Commercial Loans, Trade Financing
- Industries: Finance, Transport
Pros
- Global presence
- Variety of loan products
Cons
- Complex application process
7. Santander
Santander provides business loans tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, including franchises aiming to expand. It typically offers competitive rates and a balance between speed and support. Loans often include asset financing options with clear application processes.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £2,000
- Max Amount: £350,000
- Min APR: 4.5%
- Max APR: 20.5%
- Loan Duration: 6–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Asset Financing
- Industries: Education, Healthcare
Pros
- Competitive interest rates
- Comprehensive support
Metro Bank is a UK retail and commercial bank offering accessible business banking and loans. It is suitable for SMEs and franchisees wanting straightforward loan products alongside additional banking services. Availability emphasises convenience and customer service but with limited geographical reach.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 5.9%
- Max APR: 23.5%
- Loan Duration: 6–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Overdraft Facilities
- Industries: Retail, Manufacturing
Pros
- 24/7 customer support
- Innovative banking solutions
Cons
- Limited geographical reach
The Co-operative Bank focuses on ethical banking and SME support with business loans that reflect these values. It suits franchise buyers and social enterprises valuing community focus and ethical financing. Loan terms often include transparent criteria with moderate flexibility.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 6.5%
- Max APR: 24.5%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Ethical Financing
- Industries: Non-profits, Community services
Pros
- Ethical banking
- Community focus
TSB Bank offers a variety of business loan products aimed at helping small businesses and franchises grow. It is suited to borrowers seeking clear, transparent fees and manageable loan sizes. The bank provides practical solutions with a focus on straightforward repayment terms.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £150,000
- Min APR: 4%
- Max APR: 20%
- Loan Duration: 6–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Small Business Loans, Commercial Loans
- Industries: Retail, Construction
Pros
- Focus on small businesses
- Transparent fees
How to choose
When choosing a lender for a business loan exceeding 10 years, consider the loan size and APR to match your financial plan. Assess each provider's eligibility criteria, repayment flexibility, and whether collateral is required. Evaluate the speed of application and approval processes, balanced against long-term loan terms. Ensure the repayment structure aligns with your franchise's cash flow and seasonal revenue. Investigate any fees and terms for early repayments to avoid unexpected costs. Finally, confirm the lender's specialization suits your industry or loan purpose.
Conclusion
Selecting the right lender depends on your business needs and loan type. Traditional banks offer stability and wide product ranges but may have stricter terms. Brokered platforms like Funding Agent provide quick comparisons across options, ideal for speed and unsecured loans. Specialist lenders and ethical banks suit niche requirements or value-driven borrowing. Matching lender type to your use case ensures better fit for a successful 200 thousand pounds loan. Always check current terms before proceeding.
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