The vast majority of money lent in the first quarter of this year went to the large, top 4% of companies in the UK and there was a clear reluctance to lend to small companies. Merchant Money has been established and is expanding to help fill this void

We launched our business (without a contact centre) because we believe there is strong demand for access to quick and flexible finance with a personal service where the lender has a genuine interest in the business, people and growth plan

Unfortunately, some 40% of small businesses that are turned down for a loan by their Bank do not look further and shelve their plans. Traditional funding sources should be clear about their approach to small businesses - and if they aren't willing to lend, then they should make sure they are aware of the 'alternative lending' solutions that are available