Best Lenders to Secure a Unsecured Business Loan Over 6 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 focuses on brokered access to unsecured business finance across the UK. It suits SMEs looking for fast comparison of multiple loan options without providing collateral. The service offers a simple application process and quick eligibility checks, promoting flexibility in loan choices.
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
Barclays Bank specialises in traditional bank business loans and a broad range of financial services. It is suitable for franchise buyers and established businesses seeking secured or unsecured credit options. Barclays typically offers structured repayment plans and requires meeting certain eligibility criteria, including collateral in many cases.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: All
Pros
- Established bank
- Wide range of services
Cons
- High eligibility criteria
HSBC UK offers tailored unsecured and business loan products with a focus on client-specific financial requirements. It suits businesses needing flexible financing that may include various repayment options and collateral structures. HSBC’s global reach supports franchises and SMEs that require adaptable credit solutions.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 4.9%
- Max APR: 13%
- Loan Duration: 12–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured Loans, Business Loans
- Industries: Finance, Real Estate
Pros
- Global presence
- Customizable financing
Cons
- Complex application process
Lloyds Bank provides competitive business loan options with an emphasis on flexible repayments for SMEs. It is appropriate for franchise buyers and small businesses seeking secured and unsecured credit with clear terms. Lloyds offers personalised support and a variety of repayment structures depending on client needs.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 6%
- Max APR: 12%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans
- Industries: Manufacturing, Retail
Pros
- Personal relationship managers
- Flexible repayment options
5. Santander UK
Santander UK offers various flexible financial products including term loans suited for business growth. It is appropriate for SMEs and franchises looking for clear loan terms with options for both secured and unsecured financing. Santander emphasises dedicated support and transparent repayment structures.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £300,000
- Min APR: 6.5%
- Max APR: 14.9%
- Loan Duration: 12–72 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: Healthcare, Retail, Tech
Pros
- Dedicated support teams
- Transparent terms
NatWest focuses on business loans that support cash flow management and investment in growth. It is suited to SMEs and franchises looking for unsecured and fixed-rate options with varied loan durations. NatWest provides relatively fast application processes with flexible repayment plans.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 5.9%
- Max APR: 18.9%
- Loan Duration: 12–120 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured Loans, Fixed Rate Loans
- Industries: Education, Retail
Pros
- Fast application process
- Low fees
Cons
- Limitations on loan amount
Metro Bank delivers customer-focused business loans with an emphasis on service convenience and innovation. It is suitable for SMEs and franchises looking for straightforward products with flexibility. Metro Bank supports unsecured lending and asset finance with clear terms.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £0
- Max Amount: £0
- Min APR: 5.7%
- Max APR: 16.8%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Asset Finance
- Industries: Retail, Hospitality
Pros
- Convenient service
- Innovative products
TSB Bank provides straightforward unsecured business loans focused on clear terms and customer support. It fits SMEs and franchise operators seeking simplicity and transparent conditions. TSB emphasizes accessible credit with dedicated service support and flexible repayment options.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £2,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 6.5%
- Max APR: 19.9%
- Loan Duration: 12–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Business Loans, Credit Lines
- Industries: Retail, SMEs
Pros
- Clear and simple services
- Good customer support
Clydesdale Bank offers business loans tailored to the needs of UK SMEs with a focus on flexibility and sector-specific support. It is suited to franchises and small businesses requiring adaptable unsecured or term loans. Clydesdale provides a personalised approach with options for different repayment styles.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 5%
- Max APR: 15%
- Loan Duration: 12–60 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Term Loans, Business Loans
- Industries: Agriculture, Retail
Pros
- Personalized service
- Flexible options
Virgin Money offers innovative and competitive unsecured business loans targeting SMEs and startups. It is appropriate for franchise buyers seeking flexible credit solutions with a variety of repayment and loan duration options. Virgin Money emphasises strong brand reputation and technology-driven loan management.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £350,000
- Min APR: 6.9%
- Max APR: 16.9%
- Loan Duration: 6–84 months ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured Loans, Business Loans
- Industries: Technology, Startups
Pros
- Innovative solutions
- Strong brand reputation
How to choose
When selecting lenders for unsecured business loans over six years, match the loan size and APR to your financial capacity. Evaluate the lender's eligibility requirements and consider the balance between application speed and loan flexibility. Ensure the repayment schedule fits your franchise's cash flow and takes account of any seasonal variations. Examine lender fees and early repayment policies carefully before committing. Consider if you prefer a broker for variety or a bank for established terms.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lender depends on your loan purpose and preferences. Banks often suit those seeking established terms and broader services, while brokers can provide access to a wider range of unsecured business loans. Specialist providers may offer tailored solutions for specific industries or loan types. Funding Agent is a practical option for quick access to multiple offers when securing loans up to 200 thousand pounds. Always verify terms and conditions before proceeding to align your choice with your franchise’s needs.