NACFB Hits 1,414 Firms: Record Growth Continues for United Kingdom’s Commercial Finance Brokers

The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) shows strong growth. It achieved its fifth straight year of expansion. As of January 2026, the NACFB has 1,414 member firms. This is a 6% increase from the previous year. The association also passed a key milestone. It now has over 3,000 registered individual brokers. This is a trending success story in the UK business landscape.

Expanding Broker Network

The NACFB welcomed over 100 new independent firms in 2025. This growth reflects a dynamic market. Many brokers seek professional support and guidance. They also need strong representation. The NACFB is the United Kingdom’s leading trade body. It champions professionalism in finance. The association provides crucial resources. These help brokers navigate complex markets.

Lender Confidence Surges

Lender support for the broker channel is also increasing. NACFB’s Patron lenders grew by 9%. This brought their total to 177. This rise shows sustained commitment. Lenders trust intermediary-led distribution. Several major asset finance lenders joined recently. These include Simply Asset Finance and Siemens Financial Services. Investec also joined as a Patron. This strengthens the association’s offering.

Driving SME Success

Commercial finance brokers are vital. They facilitate significant SME lending. In 2024, NACFB members handled 70% of UK SME lending. This market is valued at £38 billion. Lenders rely on brokers for 67% of SME finance deals. Brokers act as growth partners for businesses. They match SMEs with the right funding solutions. This is a key piece of business news.

A Trusted Advisor Role

Brokers redefine the role of trusted advisors. They blend human insight with market expertise. This helps drive the UK economy forward. Many SMEs secure funding via NACFB brokers. This happens even after initial rejections. In fact, 20% of SMEs find finance this way. Another 25% receive alternative products. This highlights broker adaptability. Nearly half of broker leads come from repeat clients. This demonstrates strong client trust.

Investment in Standards

The NACFB invests heavily in its framework. The broker Assurance framework strengthens oversight. It promotes consistency and high standards. This ensures members operate ethically. It also provides valuable compliance support. This is crucial in today’s economic climate. The association helps brokers achieve professional integrity. This gives clients and lenders greater confidence.

Future Outlook

This continued growth signals a healthy market. It highlights the indispensable role of brokers. The NACFB is well-positioned for the future. It advocates for a cohesive, intermediary-led market. Its expansion supports thousands of UK businesses. This news is important for the trending finance sector.