Best Long-Term Business Loan Lenders for the Accountancy Industry
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 2026-03-23.
Funding Agent focuses on brokering business finance by enabling UK SMEs to compare options efficiently. It is suitable for franchise buyers and operators looking for flexible loan products without collateral. The platform emphasises speed and ease in the application process while offering a range of repayment types and terms.
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 offers bank business loans with a focus on flexibility in terms and repayment options. It is generally suitable for small to medium-sized franchise operators and accountancy firms that require predictable loan structures. Barclays provides a range of security requirements and facilitates access via direct bank lending.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 11.2%
- Max APR: 14.9%
- Loan Duration: 1–5 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans
- Industries: Finance, Retail, Manufacturing
Pros
- No early repayment fees
- Flexible loan amounts
Cons
- High APR for smaller loans
Lloyds provides a broad range of business loan options including secured and unsecured loans. The lending is aimed at accountancy and franchise businesses that require a blend of repayment options and moderate loan amounts. Security requirements vary, and Lloyds offers flexible terms through its banking services.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 11.2%
- Max APR: 0%
- Loan Duration: 1–5 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans
- Industries: Retail, Manufacturing, Professional Services
Pros
- Comprehensive service
- Wide range of financial support
HSBC specialises in corporate and professional business loans with options for secured and unsecured lending. It suits franchises and accountancy firms seeking longer-term finance with support for various repayment models. HSBC's global network can offer added services, though loan application processes may be more detailed.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 7.5%
- Max APR: 12.9%
- Loan Duration: 3–10 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: Professional Services, Manufacturing, Agrifoods
Pros
- Global banking network
- Strong customer service
Cons
- Complex application process
5. Santander
Santander provides varied business loan products typically aimed at small to medium enterprises including franchises and service providers. It focuses on loans with flexible terms and a range of APRs to match different credit profiles. The lender offers both fixed and variable rates with repayment options tailored to business cash flow.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £2,000
- Max Amount: £25,000
- Min APR: 7.9%
- Max APR: 23.7%
- Loan Duration: 1–25 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans
- Industries: Retail, Construction, Healthcare
Pros
- Flexible repayment terms
- No interest for initial period
NatWest offers business loans designed for a range of UK SMEs including professional and franchise businesses. The loans are generally flexible with competitive interest rates and options for fixed or variable repayments. Collateral requirements vary based on the loan size and applicant profile.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £100,000
- Min APR: 8%
- Max APR: 13%
- Loan Duration: 1–7 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans
- Industries: Retail, Professional Services, Technology
Pros
- Fast application process
- Range of loan amounts
Cons
- Higher APR for high amounts
Virgin Money focuses on competitive business loan products designed for longer-term investments. It serves SMEs and franchises, particularly those in technology and retail sectors, with options including unsecured loans and credit lines. The lender offers innovative financial products with varying repayment plans and flexibility.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £5,000
- Max Amount: £500,000
- Min APR: 9%
- Max APR: 14.5%
- Loan Duration: 1–10 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Unsecured Loans, Credit Line
- Industries: Technology, Retail, Travel
Pros
- Innovative products
- Competitive APRs
Cons
- Limited physical branches
Metro Bank offers tailored banking experiences with a focus on customer service, suited for small to medium enterprises including franchises. The bank provides secured loans and overdraft services with an emphasis on personal support and flexible lending terms. Metro Bank prioritises bespoke loan solutions for UK SMEs.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 10%
- Max APR: 15.6%
- Loan Duration: 1–10 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Secured Loans, Overdrafts
- Industries: Small Businesses, Retail, Professional Services
Pros
- Customer service focus
- Personalized offerings
TSB provides business banking services tailored to SMEs, including loans aimed at growth financing. It suits franchises and accountancy businesses looking for flexible loan options with both fixed and variable rates. TSB emphasises ease of online management and a focus on smaller business needs.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £10,000
- Max Amount: £250,000
- Min APR: 8.5%
- Max APR: 14.9%
- Loan Duration: 2–7 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans
- Industries: Small Businesses, Technology, Retail
Pros
- Focus on SMEs
- Easy online management
Cons
- Limited options for large enterprises
10. Bank of Scotland
Bank of Scotland provides a variety of financial solutions including fixed and variable rate business loans. Its offerings are suited to SMEs and franchise businesses needing tailored terms, often with a focus on regional markets. The lender balances competitive rates with industry-specific support for sectors like retail and agriculture.
Loan Details
- Min Amount: £1,000
- Max Amount: £50,000
- Min APR: 10%
- Max APR: 12.8%
- Loan Duration: 1–5 years ⌛
Services & Industries
- Finance Types: Fixed Rate Loans, Variable Rate Loans
- Industries: Retail, Agriculture, Education
Pros
- Historical brand
- Strong customer support
Cons
- Regional service limitations
How to choose
When selecting long-term business loan lenders for the accountancy industry, consider how loan size and APR align with your cash flow and financial plans. Evaluate eligibility criteria carefully, including collateral and security requirements. Compare the speed of approval and flexibility in repayment to suit your business cycle. Pay attention to lender specialisms and whether a direct bank or brokered loan better fits your needs. Review fees and early repayment options thoroughly before applying.
Conclusion
Choosing the right loan provider depends on your business needs: traditional banks often offer stability for predictable financing, brokers provide wider market access, and specialists serve niche requirements. Funding Agent is a strong choice for SMEs seeking quick comparisons across multiple options. For loans around 200 thousand pounds and above, larger banks or specialised lenders may be more suitable. Always verify current terms and conditions with each lender to ensure the best fit.