The lender simplified its processes following consultations with brokers and Martin Nixon, Head of Asset Finance at UTB felt the results were excellent indicators that its broker focused approach was paying off.

“The first three months of 2016 have been the Asset Finance team’s busiest first quarter since I joined UTB in 2011. 

“Enquiry levels are up, transaction numbers are up, lending volumes are up and our average deal size is up. 

“We have also widened the number of brokers we have written business with this year which is very encouraging.”

Martin praised the work done by Keith Sangwin and the business development managers who had spent a lot of time with brokers talking about the most important elements of what UTB can offer them. 

“Price is still high up the list of course but also being able to consider a wider range of assets, the recent simplifying of some of our processes, the flexibility and pro-active approach at the underwriting stage where brokers can discuss proposals directly with a credit manager, and our commitment to delivering consistently excellent service, means that we’re on more broker pick lists more of the time.

“Also, over the last year or so we have written a lot more business within the CNC machinery sector where our refinance product has proved very popular. 

“We’ve also just completed a transaction in the media sector having funded some specialist camera lenses for a film making company.”

Martin said that there was uncertainty of the EU referendum but hoped this would not lead to business confidence waning and investment decisions being delayed.

“At the moment I have the impression that most UK companies aren’t sitting back and waiting for the result but are instead out there making the most of existing opportunities. 

“We’ve been very busy helping brokers to provide funding to individuals and SMEs looking to invest in their businesses and are keen to do even more over the coming months.”