Key Elements of the Strategic Partnership (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Oldham – PMD Business Finance has secured a majority stake in Rotherham-based Custom Business Finance, marking a pivotal step in its Northern expansion strategy.[1][2] The deal allows Custom to maintain its independent brand while leveraging PMD’s robust infrastructure. This partnership aligns two established players in asset and commercial finance, enhancing their capacity to serve SMEs across the region.
Key Elements of the Strategic Partnership
PMD, with its headquarters in Oldham and a team of 65 professionals, took control through the majority shareholding announced on April 22, 2026.[3] Custom’s leadership trio – Martin Taylor, Chris Mangle, and Dave Catling – remains at the helm. They now benefit from PMD’s systems and back-office support to drive further development.
The arrangement preserves Custom’s market identity while integrating operational efficiencies. Since its inception in December 2016, Custom has guided clients through more than 1,500 transactions totaling over £250 million in lending.[1] Its expertise spans critical sectors that fuel Northern economies.
- Haulage and transport
- Manufacturing and engineering
- Healthcare
- Construction
- Renewables
Profiles of Established Finance Providers
PMD Business Finance traces its roots to 2010, when founders including Peter Dobson launched the firm to bridge funding gaps for UK businesses.[4] Over the years, it advanced more than £1.5 billion in funding to exceed 14,000 clients nationwide.[2] Last year, PMD introduced a debt advisory service to bolster options for SMEs and their advisors.
Custom Business Finance carved a niche in South Yorkshire since 2016. Its directors bring decades of experience from major lenders like NatWest and Lombard.[5] The firm emphasizes tailored solutions, from asset finance to cash flow support and property funding.
| Company | Founded | Headquarters | Funding Milestone | Clients/Transactions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PMD Business Finance | 2010 | Oldham | >£1.5bn advanced | >14,000 businesses |
| Custom Business Finance | 2016 | Rotherham | >£250m advised | >1,500 transactions |
Insights from Company Leaders
Tom Brown, managing director at PMD, described the move as a blueprint for future collaborations. “This is a really exciting strategic step forward for PMD and it will help us progress towards our goal of being the UK’s leading asset and commercial finance intermediary,” he stated.[1]
Martin Taylor, a director at Custom, highlighted the seamless fit. He noted prior professional ties with Brown and shared values in client-focused lending. “We’re thrilled to be joining forces with PMD Business Finance,” Taylor said.[6]
These comments underscore mutual respect and aligned visions. Both leaders emphasized long-term lender relationships and customer priorities as core strengths.
Professional Guidance Behind the Deal
Several firms facilitated the transaction. PMD received legal counsel from CG Professional, led by Benjamin Dredge and Victoria Brown.[2] Custom’s team included Amy Cusworth of Oxley & Coward Solicitors LLP.
Accountancy support for Custom came from Steven Crookes at Knowles Warwick Chartered Accountants, plus Steve Watson and Andrew Wood from Harris and Co Accountants. The undisclosed deal value reflects careful structuring for sustained success.
Implications for the Finance Landscape
This acquisition positions PMD for broader national influence, particularly in Yorkshire, the Midlands, Humberside, and Lincolnshire. Custom’s regional clout complements PMD’s established operations, promising enhanced service delivery.
The partnership signals consolidation trends in business finance brokerage. It equips SMEs with more robust funding access amid economic pressures.
Key Takeaways
- PMD gains a strong foothold in Yorkshire while Custom retains autonomy.
- Combined expertise targets key Northern sectors like manufacturing and renewables.
- Deal paves way for more partnerships, aiming for UK leadership in asset finance.
The union of PMD and Custom exemplifies strategic synergy in a competitive market, fortifying support for business growth across the North. What do you think about this development? Tell us in the comments.
