Finance broker PMD seals Custom partnership

A Greater Manchester finance broker has expanded its footprint through a strategic partnership with a Yorkshire counterpart.

PMD Business Finance has acquired a majority stake in Rotherham-based Custom Business Finance, marking a key move in its long-term expansion plans.

The deal will see Custom continue to operate under its existing brand, with its leadership team remaining in place while benefiting from PMD’s wider infrastructure and support.

Founded in 2016, Custom has built a strong reputation across sectors including transport, manufacturing and construction, advising on more than £250 million in lending across 1500 transactions.

PMD, headquartered in Oldham, has supported more than 14,000 businesses since its launch in 2010, advancing over £1.5 billion in funding.

Bosses say the partnership reflects the long-term growth ambitions of both businesses, while also signalling PMD’s intent to pursue further collaborations as it continues to scale its offering and support SMEs across the country.

Tom Brown, managing director of PMD Business Finance, said: “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.

“It’s an acquisition that strengthens our long-term position in the market, providing a platform for significant growth and value-creation for everyone involved. 

“The model that we’ve developed together with the team at Custom serves as a blueprint for additional future partnerships as we continue to scale.

“Custom has built a strong, credible reputation with clients nationwide, but particularly in the Yorkshire, Midlands, Humberside and Lincolnshire regions. 

“The team brings a wealth of commercial finance experience and industry knowledge that perfectly complements our existing operations.”

Martin Taylor, director at Custom Business Finance, added: “We’re thrilled to be joining forces with PMD Business Finance. 

“I worked with Tom earlier in our careers and the wider PMD board are known to us as well, so this has all felt very natural and the right strategic fit for Custom.

“There is real alignment between the two business as we both share the same values and business ethos, particularly in developing strong lender relationships and doing the right thing for customers for the long-term.”

PMD was advised on the legal aspects of the acquisition by CG Professional, with support from Benjamin Dredge and Victoria Brown. 

Custom Business Finance was represented by Amy Cusworth of Oxley & Coward Solicitors LLP, with additional advice provided by Steven Crookes of Knowles Warwick Chartered Accountants, alongside Steve Watson and Andrew Wood of Harris and Co Accountants.

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