Recent data released by The Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) shows that total asset finance new business was 2% up in the 10 months to October 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Whilst this is positive for the industry, research by Time Finance revealed only 24% of UK SMEs are using asset finance to fund their equipment purchases. We want to increase awareness as to how accessible asset finance can be, to help UK SMEs grow and achieve their goals.
Asset finance is a type of funding used by businesses to purchase equipment, vehicles and plant & machinery. The finance is secured on the assets being purchased, or in some cases, assets that have already been purchased.
Unlike a loan, as the finance is secured, there is deemed to be less risk, so the rates are more favourable and generally don’t require guarantees.
What
This type of finance can be used to fund any asset the business may need including:
- Commercial vehicles
- IT solutions & software
- Coffee machines
- Manufacturing & engineering machinery
- Catering equipment
- HVAC
- Furniture & fit-out
- Solar
- Cleaning equipment
- Security & fire alarms
Find a reminder of what you can finance here
Typical terms are available between 2 and 5 years, although up to 7 years may be available for certain assets.
Generally no lump sum deposit is required to obtain approval, preserving your cashflow.
Why
Even the strongest businesses fail, when they don’t have enough working capital to pay suppliers and staff, promote sales or weather a storm. Utilising finance correctly can hugely strengthen your business, enabling you to grasp opportunities when they arise.
- Retain cashflow so your money can work harder for you
- Benefit from an immediate return investment or save on repairs from old equipment
- Be able to have the equipment you really want rather than what budget dictates
- Keep additional banking facilities and credit lines free for more appropriate uses such as cashflow requirements
Who
The finance Focus arrange is available to any British business from new start sole traders through to multi-national PLCs.
We cater for all different industries, credit types and sizes but offer a bespoke service not a one size fits all solution.
How
- Select the right supplier and equipment for you
- Provide Focus with your equipment purchase and they will get in touch to discuss your requirements and preferences
- Receive a bespoke finance proposal to review and accept
- Credit approval is obtained
- On acceptance the finance agreement is issued to you to sign
- Payment is then made in line with your supplier’s payment requirements and your finance payments will start
By increasing awareness of asset finance and how available it is for SMEs of all shapes and sizes, we hope that it will improve confidence in using funding outside of banking facilities, enabling a higher number of businesses to see the benefits that asset finance can be. We may be biased but asset finance with Focus really is simple and hassle free, so give us a call to discuss your upcoming plans.