Why pubs choose Fast Business Loans

Running a pub is seasonal, unpredictable and competitive. Publicans told us they want fast, practical help finding finance without wading through dozens of lenders. That’s exactly what we provide.

• Sector expertise: we match you with brokers and lenders who understand hospitality and on‑trade cashflows.
• Time saving: one short enquiry and we shortlist the most appropriate providers for your situation.
• Multiple options: compare secured and unsecured routes, asset finance, bridging and specialist hospitality products.
• No hard searches: an initial enquiry and matching process won’t harm your credit file.
• Free & no obligation: you decide whether to proceed once you receive quotes.

We act as an introducer (not a lender) and work with a broad panel of UK finance partners to increase your chances of a competitive outcome. Get Started in Minutes.

How our pub finance matching service works

We keep the process simple and transparent. Submitting your details is an enquiry only — not an application — and helps us match you to the best providers for your needs.

1. Complete the short enquiry form: tell us about the business, funding amount and purpose (under two minutes). Free Eligibility Check.
2. We match you: your details are reviewed and securely shared with selected lenders/brokers who specialise in hospitality finance.
3. Receive contact and quotes: matched partners will call or email to discuss options and next steps.
4. Compare and decide: review offers directly with brokers/lenders and accept the one that best fits your goals.

Submitting an enquiry will not automatically trigger a formal credit search; any hard checks will be explained and agreed before they occur.

Common reasons UK pubs seek finance

Seasonal cashflow support

Many pubs need working capital ahead of peak seasons (e.g., summer beer gardens, local events). Short‑term working capital or overdrafts arranged via brokers can bridge gaps without long-term commitment.

Refurbishments & beer garden upgrades

Investment in interiors, accessible spaces or outdoor dining often drives footfall. Asset finance and term loans are commonly used for fit‑outs and improvements.

Kitchen equipment & cellar investment

Commercial kitchen and cellar upgrades are costly. Asset or equipment finance spreads the cost and can include hire purchase or lease arrangements.

Stocking specialist beers & wines

Purchasing premium or seasonal stock ahead of demand can strain cashflow — merchant cash advances or short‑term loans can help.

Acquiring or expanding leaseholds

Buying the freehold or extending a lease often requires bridging or commercial loans tailored to hospitality transactions.

Illustrative example: a coastal pub used a combination of refurbishment finance and working capital to extend trading hours and increase summer turnover by over 20% within 6 months.

Compare Pub Finance Options.

Finance solutions available for pubs

Note: terms, rates and eligibility are set by lenders. Fast Business Loans helps you find the right providers to discuss exact figures. Request Your Tailored Options.

Eligibility snapshot: what lenders may consider

Each lender has its own criteria, but common factors include:

• Trading history and time in business (some specialist lenders support new ventures with strong plans)
• Annual turnover and profitability
• Current and forecast cashflow
• Type of licence and lease/freehold status
• Security available (assets or property) and willingness to provide guarantees
• Management experience and a clear business plan for larger loans

Even if you’ve been declined elsewhere, our panel may include specialists who can help. Check Eligibility Now.

Navigating finance as a publican: FAQs & guidance

Can start‑up pubs access funding?

Yes — some providers specialise in new venues. Strong projections, a credible business plan and experienced management improve prospects. Where possible, combine asset finance with working capital to reduce early cash pressure.

Will enquiring impact my credit rating?

No. Initial matching is an introduction and uses soft checks only. Formal credit checks are run by lenders or brokers with your consent.

What documents will a broker ask for?

Typical documents include trading accounts, recent bank statements, a rent/lease agreement, alcohol licence details and quotes for the proposed expenditure. Preparing these speeds up the process.

How quickly can funding be arranged?

Speed depends on the product: unsecured loans or merchant advances can complete in days; property bridging and large secured facilities may take several weeks.

Are there options for tied houses?

Yes. Specialist brokers understand brewery arrangements and can advise on refinancing or alternative funding that works around tie agreements.

Can I refinance existing brewery loans?

Often yes — refinancing can reduce monthly costs or release capital for improvements. Outcomes depend on the original agreement and lender appetite.

What security might be required?

Security can range from no security (for smaller unsecured loans) to charges on property or equipment. Personal guarantees are requested by some lenders for larger facilities.

Do I have to proceed once matched?

No. Getting matched and receiving quotes is free and without obligation — you choose whether to progress with any lender or broker.

Speak to a Pub Finance Specialist.

Success snapshot: UK pubs we’ve helped

• Rural inn refurbishment: blended asset finance and term loan funded a conservation‑style refit; resulted in extended opening hours and a notable rise in weekend covers.
• City gastropub kitchen upgrade: hire purchase for new catering equipment cut service times and increased covers by 15% within three months.
• Microbrewery taproom expansion: short‑term bridging allowed purchase of adjacent unit, then refinanced to a longer-term commercial facility.

Outcomes vary but the right match makes the difference. There’s no obligation when you submit your enquiry. Start Your Enquiry.

Why acting early helps your pub thrive

Planning funding ahead of busy trading periods or compliance deadlines gives you time to secure the most competitive terms and coordinate works without interrupting service. Early enquiries broaden your choice of lenders and reduce the need for expensive emergency funding.

Begin Your Free Eligibility Check.

Ready to explore your pub finance options?

Fast Business Loans makes it quick to compare trusted finance partners who understand pubs. Our process:

1. Complete a short enquiry (under 2 minutes).
2. We match you with suitable lenders/brokers.
3. Receive quotes and discuss terms with providers.
4. Decide and fund — there’s no obligation to proceed.

We don’t lend or provide regulated financial advice — we introduce you to lenders and brokers who will. Any agreement will be directly between you and the selected provider.

Get Quote Now

For more sector-specific guidance, see our pillar on pubs business loans.