Do you support franchise businesses?
Short answer and who we can help today
At present, Best Business Loans does not support franchise businesses or franchise finance applications. This includes both new franchisees and existing franchise units seeking funding under a franchise agreement. We focus on established UK trading businesses that are not operating under a franchise model.
We act as an independent introducer, not a lender, using AI-powered matching to help eligible companies explore suitable finance providers. If your business is a limited company with established trading history and you are not a franchise, we may be able to match you with lenders or brokers for commercial finance. Our network supports a wide range of non-franchise industries across the UK.
If you are unsure whether your business counts as a franchise, you can use the guidance below to check. You can also contact our UK support team for clarity before submitting a Quick Quote. We aim to ensure all information is fair, clear and not misleading, so you can make confident decisions.
What we mean by “franchise business”
By “franchise”, we mean businesses operating under a franchise agreement where a franchisor licenses a brand, systems, and IP to a franchisee. Funding needs for these arrangements are highly specific and often require specialist franchise lenders or franchisor-backed programmes. Because of these distinct requirements, our current matching process excludes franchise applications.
Last updated
Information on this page was last reviewed in October 2025. We update our guidance periodically to reflect market practice and provider criteria.
Why we do not currently support franchise finance
Franchise funding is a specialist area with unique eligibility factors, legal considerations and brand-level controls. Many lenders assess franchise agreements, step-in rights, territory rules, refurb standards, and franchisor approval before reaching a decision. To keep our service accurate and responsible, we currently do not route franchise requests through our network.
This approach helps prevent wasted enquiries and ensures our promotions remain clear, fair and not misleading. We would rather set expectations early than invite an application that is unlikely to progress. As and when our network expands to include appropriate franchise specialists, we will update this page.
If you are a multi-site business operating fully company-owned locations (not franchised units), you may still be eligible. Please ensure your legal structure and trading model are non-franchise before you submit an enquiry. If in doubt, contact our team for guidance.
Who we regularly support instead
- Limited companies with 12+ months trading history seeking commercial finance for growth, working capital or assets.
- Asset-rich and operational sectors such as construction, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, retail, agriculture, and engineering.
- Businesses looking for equipment finance, vehicle funding, invoice finance, asset refinance, or non-property commercial loans.
Important compliance note
We do not claim to cover all lenders or to find the lowest rate. Any matches are based on the details you provide and third-party criteria, and there is no guarantee of an offer. Our content is for information only and does not constitute financial advice.
Transparency matters
To align with UK advertising standards and FCA principles for financial promotions, we aim to provide balanced, accurate explanations. If a product or sector lies outside our scope, we say so plainly. That is why franchise finance is not supported on our platform today.
If you are a franchisee or franchisor: practical funding routes to consider
Although we cannot help with franchise finance directly, here are practical pathways you can explore. Franchisees often secure funding through lenders with dedicated franchise panels. Some brands also offer in-house finance or approved broker partnerships.
Consider speaking to your franchisor about any recommended or pre-approved finance partners. These providers understand your brand’s model, performance data and fit-out standards. This can save time and reduce the risk of misaligned applications.
Common funding types in the franchise ecosystem
- Fit-out and refurbishment finance for premises set-up or mandated upgrades.
- Equipment and vehicle finance for specialist tools, POS, catering or delivery fleets.
- Working capital facilities to manage stock, seasonality, or marketing ramps.
- Refinance options to restructure existing agreements and improve cash flow.
- Invoice finance for franchisors with B2B income streams (e.g., supply or royalty invoicing).
Documents franchise lenders may request
- Signed franchise agreement and any renewals or side letters.
- Franchisor approval letter or brand accreditation.
- Business plan, cash flow forecasts and evidence of personal contribution.
- Trading accounts (if existing unit), bank statements and management information.
- Landlord consent, shopfit quotes, and insurance details for fit-out funding.
Specialist considerations for franchise funding
Many lenders will assess territory exclusivity, franchisor step-in rights, and brand standards. Personal guarantees, deposits and security may be required depending on risk and loan purpose. Ensure your forecasts are realistic, stress-tested and aligned with franchisor guidance.
How our service works for eligible non-franchise businesses
If your business is not a franchise, our platform can help you explore options quickly. We use intelligent matching to connect you with finance providers who may support your sector and use-case. There is no obligation to proceed and it is free to submit your Quick Quote.
Four simple steps
- Complete a Quick Quote with your business details and funding purpose.
- Our system analyses your profile against live provider criteria.
- We introduce you to suitable lenders or brokers for next steps.
- You review terms and choose the route that fits your goals and cash flow.
Typical documents providers may ask for
- Latest filed accounts and recent management information.
- Business bank statements and aged debtor/creditor reports (if relevant).
- Asset lists or equipment quotes for asset finance requests.
- VAT returns, proof of identity and proof of address for directors.
Sectors we can support
We work across many UK industries that are not franchised, including manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, retail and hospitality. If you operate in engineering or production, you may find our guidance on sector-specific options helpful. Learn more about our approach to manufacturing business loans and related finance pathways.
Clear, fair, not misleading
We will not promise outcomes or lowest rates. Eligibility and terms are set by third-party providers and subject to change. Always review full terms and consider independent advice before committing.
FAQs, eligibility clarity and next steps
These quick answers summarise how our policy applies to franchise-related queries. We want you to know early whether our service is right for your needs. If you are eligible, you can submit a Quick Quote in minutes.
Do you support franchise start-ups or existing franchise units?
No, we do not currently support finance for franchisees at any stage. This includes launches, re-sales or refurbishments under a franchise agreement. Please consider specialist franchise lenders or your franchisor’s recommended partners.
Can a franchisor use your platform?
Possibly, if the finance sought is for non-franchise activities within a limited company, such as central operations or supply chain investments. Each case depends on the specific funding purpose and structure, and there are no guarantees. Contact us first to confirm whether your scenario is in scope.
What if I run multi-site locations that are not franchised?
Company-owned multi-site businesses may be eligible if they are not governed by franchise agreements. We can explore commercial finance options such as asset finance, working capital or refinance. Submit a Quick Quote with clear details about your structure and purpose of funds.
Are your introductions regulated advice?
No, we do not provide financial advice. We operate as an independent introducer to commercial finance providers and brokers. Information on this site is for general guidance only and should not be relied upon as advice.
Are outcomes guaranteed or rates fixed?
No, outcomes depend on provider criteria, your documents, trading profile and risk assessment. Rates, fees and terms are set by the provider and can vary. Always read full terms and seek professional advice if needed.
Key takeaways
- We do not support franchise finance applications at this time.
- We help established, non-franchise UK businesses find suitable providers.
- Franchisees should approach specialist lenders or franchisor-backed partners.
- There is no guarantee of approval, offers or market-low rates.
- Submitting a Quick Quote is free and without obligation for eligible businesses.
If your business is not a franchise and you need commercial finance, start with a Quick Quote. It takes a couple of minutes and helps us match you with relevant providers. Our aim is to make the process faster, clearer and more confident for UK businesses.