Our Story – 18 Years of the Portman Group

Where It All Began

Portman Asset Finance was founded by Alex Read with nothing more than a computer, a telephone, and a vision. Operating from a spare bedroom in a rented house in Bedfordshire, Alex Read single-handedly began brokering asset finance, laying the groundwork for what would become a trusted name in the industry.

Portman Asset Finance Limited Est. – The Official Beginning

Portman Asset Finance Limited was officially incorporated on 25th April 2007 as a private limited company. The name ‘Portman Asset Finance Ltd’ was chosen to reflect its roots in asset finance at a time when commercial loan brokerage was virtually unheard of among lenders.

This marked the start of Portman’s journey to becoming a trusted leader in SME business financial solutions.

The First Home of Portman Asset Finance – The Drapery, Northampton 📍

In October 2007, Portman Asset Finance expanded and relocated to its first official office at The Drapery in Northampton Town Centre. Situated on the third floor, the open-plan office housed a small but dedicated team of no more than seven staff members, driving the business forward.

The location, perfectly positioned near high street retail and franchise businesses, provided excellent connections to potential clients in the growing franchise sector, laying the foundations for future success.

Expanding into the Franchise Sector

Between 2007 and 2008, Portman Asset Finance entered the Franchise Sector, with a strong focus on food franchises. The company provided funding for major brands such as Subway, Burger King, and new Costa franchises. This strategic move not only supported the growth of these renowned businesses but also allowed Portman to expand its reach into niche industries, driving business growth and diversification.

Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis

The 2008 financial crisis had a profound and widespread impact on the UK economy, leading to a deep recession. Businesses closed, unemployment rose, and consumer confidence fell dramatically.

Portman faced significant challenges during this time as many lenders withdrew from the market. With only around eight lenders at the time, business became increasingly difficult. Some lenders reduced their lending capacity, while others completely withdrew due to economic uncertainty.

To overcome these challenges, Portman adapted its strategy to maintain revenue, including a strategic update to the business model to stay resilient in tough economic times.

Adaptation & Growth

Despite the turbulence of the UK economy, Portman continued to expand its financial offerings to small businesses. Key developments included the establishment of Portman Leasing Limited in 2009, which enabled direct lending to businesses and helped mitigate the impact of the financial crisis.

Portman also engaged in equipment recovery and resale, ensuring a steady stream of revenue during this difficult period.

A New Chapter: Portman Leasing Ltd

Portman Leasing Limited was incorporated and registered as a private limited company, becoming a member of the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA).

The establishment of Portman Leasing Limited was a direct response to the dwindling number of lenders in the market. As broking opportunities for Portman became increasingly scarce, the decision was made to create an asset finance lending arm.

“Spotting a weakness in the current market model, we set-up Portman Leasing Limited. This asset finance lending arm, was designed to support SMEs who were finding it difficult to access the right funding options.”

“We lend money ourselves because we found that even in the financial crisis, good businesses still wanted to invest and align themselves with new market opportunities. There just weren’t enough lenders out there serving those needs. We sat back and thought ‘okay look, there are good businesses, good opportunities, there’s a need we can fulfil,  how could we lend to them?’”

– Alex Read, CEO

This marked the beginning of Portman lending its own capital, adjusting the company’s focus and paving the way for further growth.

Onwards & Upwards

A New Place of Business – Osyth Close, Brackmills Industrial Estate 📍

Portman Asset Finance upscaled its operations by relocating to Osyth Close, Brackmills Industrial Estate. This move provided affordable office space alongside an industrial warehouse facility – an ideal choice for the business during a challenging economic period when brokering asset finance remained difficult.

To adapt, Portman evolved its operations by focusing on equipment recovery and resale to sustain revenue and raise business capital. With great innovation, the Portman team invested in a fleet of vans to collect various types of equipment, including catering appliances, refrigeration units, furniture, gym equipment, amusement machines, and vehicles. This equipment, often sourced from the completed or defaulted asset finance agreements of lending partners, was stored at the new premises and resold on behalf of lenders.

This strategic business shift not only allowed Portman to navigate the financial crisis but also demonstrated the company’s resilience and ability to innovate under pressure.

Strategic Expansion into the Amusement Sector

During the years 2009-2012, Portman expanded its expertise and presence in the Amusement sector. By actively engaging with industry leaders like Coinslot and participating in events such as the EAG Expo, Portman established itself as a trusted partner for financing amusement and gaming machines.

This period marked a significant step in Portman’s offering, strengthening its industry connections and broadening its finance options.

5 Years of Business…

Portman Asset Finance Ltd Strengthens Commitment to Britain’s Private Sector

Portman Asset Finance Ltd, a leading equipment finance provider, has reinforced its dedication to supporting Britain’s private sector in the wake of ING Lease’s market withdrawal.

Alex Read, Managing Director of Portman Asset Finance, stated:

“It’s my personal pledge to cut through the red tape and provide organisations in all sectors with the access to finance they need in order to sustain and grow their business. By assisting UK businesses – and we’ve provided funds to more than 2000 in the last 12 months – we also hope we are doing our bit to get the UK economy moving forward once again.”

Portman Asset Finance specialises in providing businesses with individually tailored finance packages with a full range of equipment leasing and financial solutions that offer many advantages over outright cash purchases. The customer negotiates the purchase price of the asset with their supplier and Portman arranges the right financial package. Often a finance facility can be put in place before a purchase as part of a pre-arranged credit line.

Every customer of Portman Asset Finance has their own dedicated Account Manager. This means every application can be processed within hours not weeks. Their ‘can do’ approach to finance and, specifically, the warehouse and logistics industry, allows applications to be processed and given the best opportunity of success in the quickest possible time. Whether you are purchasing new / second hand equipment or raising working capital, Portman has a suitable financial product.

Portman Asset Finance has even expanded their product offering in these tough economic times. Not only financing the more traditional assets such as forklifts and commercial vehicles we are now happy to finance warehouse racking, software systems, conveyor systems, lighting and much more.

Read the full article…

Sustained Growth & Expansion

In 2014, Portman continued its trajectory of growth, extending its business reach and increasing staffing numbers to support rising demand. This period of expansion reflected the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional financial solutions while strengthening its team to better serve the evolving needs of UK businesses.

A New Place of Business – 600 Pavilion Court, Northampton Business Park 📍

In line with its continued growth, Portman relocated to larger, more modern premises at 600 Pavilion Court, Northampton Business Park. This move marked an exciting step forward, providing the space and infrastructure needed to support the company’s expanding team and advancing business operations.

Bouncing into Trampoline Parks & the Leisure Sector

In 2014, the UK welcomed its first trampoline parks, with Portman Asset Finance quickly recognising the potential of this emerging sector. By 2015, Portman began providing funding for trampoline parks and Ninja Warrior parks, marking the company’s entry into the leisure sector.

What started as a strategic move to finance key trampoline park projects soon evolved into a significant opportunity. Portman established strong relationships with leading trampoline park suppliers, who introduced customers to the company, leading to the creation of early introducer and partnership relations.

From 2015 to 2017, Portman financed over 30 trampoline parks, solidifying its position as a key player in this exciting and growing industry.

Portman Continues to Provide Sector-Specific Finance Solutions

Own Your Casks from Less Than £0.02 Per Day
Portman continued to expand its sector-specific finance offering, announcing a partnership with Emmerald Polymers. This collaboration introduced tailored lease purchase finance, specifically designed for breweries (subject to status), enabling brewers to purchase Emmerald Green Casks. The financing solution was developed to meet the unique cask requirements of breweries, providing cost-effective and flexible options for businesses in the sector.

See the full article…

10 Years of Business & Still Expanding…

As Portman Asset Finance celebrates a decade of success, the company continued to evolve and expand its offerings. With a proven track record of adapting to changing market demands and supporting businesses across a variety of sectors, Portman remains committed to providing tailored finance solutions that drive growth and opportunity.

Introducing Harrington: A New Chapter in Supercar and Classic Car Finance

Harrington Finance Limited was added to the Portman Group.

It was a natural progression for Portman to enter this market, driven by both a love of supercars and the knowledge gained over the years.

“Harrington grew out of my interest in Cars and Supercars, and the fact that we felt we had an opportunity to broker Supercars and Classic Car Finance to our customers.” – Alex Read

Supporting a Cause – Portman Asset Finance Joins the #MaydayF1CharityChallenge

Portman Asset Finance proudly donated to support the #MaydayF1CharityChallenge, contributing to a worthy cause and showcasing our commitment to giving back to the community.

Reference Articles: Mayday Employment

Funding Larger Community Projects – BOXPARK Wembley

Portman played a key role in supporting the launch of BOXPARK Wembley, partnering with the project to help bring it to life in time for its grand opening in December 2018. This collaboration highlights the group’s commitment to financing large-scale community projects that drive growth and enhance local economies.

A Record Quarter

Portman achieved a significant milestone, securing a record £30m in originated funding for 550 businesses in the autumn of 2018.

Alex Read, Chairman of Portman Asset Finance, commented:

“We’re delighted by the growth of Portman over the past 12 months. These impressive figures reflect the hard work of our growing team and, despite the headlines, the continued momentum of UK businesses still striving for success.

“The hospitality and leisure sectors in particular continue to thrive and it’s been tremendous to witness the drive in openings from many of our franchise-model business partners such as Boost Trampoline Parks and Triple Two Coffee outlets.

“It’s particularly encouraging to see business owners realising the benefits of low lending rates, at a time where others might be a bit more cautious in their decision making.”

Alex added: “In the next 12m, we expect more success and further growth as we continue to develop both our direct and vendor channels. Our focus will turn to the recruitment of quality talent from across the region, which may recognise the need for a larger office to house our growing team.

“We also have plans in the pipeline for a number of new products and added distribution channels, with more of a focus to support our deserving charity partners.”

See the full article The Business Desk |

Ben Laidler Joins as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

Ben Laidler has joined Portman Asset Finance as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), bringing his expertise to drive the company’s commercial strategy and accelerate its growth.

Adapting to Change – Portman’s Response to the COVID-19 Crisis

On January 31, 2020, the UK documented its first major waves of COVID-19, triggering significant shifts in the business finance industry. The pandemic reshaped the financial needs of UK businesses, altering their funding requirements and introducing new challenges in how finance was accessed and managed.

Still powering on…

• Portman also increased the staff headcount to over 50 people and additional office space was taken next door to the Pavilion Court address.

Supporting Small Businesses with CBILS

In response to the changing business finance landscape caused by COVID-19, Portman took swift action by broking the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), helping to provide much-needed support to small businesses across the UK.

NACFB Commercial Broker Awards 2020

Portman Asset Finance Ltd was proudly awarded Asset Finance Broker of the Year and Leasing Broker of the Year at the NACFB Commercial Broker Awards 2020, recognising the company’s outstanding performance and excellence in the finance industry.

Portman Commercial Finance Formed allowing the group to add in-house lending of cash loans alongside asset finance.

Strategic Partnerships

Chief Commercial Officer ( Ben Laidler ) established a key relationship with lender MaxCap, opening up opportunities for short-term loan solutions.

See full article for details...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) Joins Portman

Portman announced the appointment of Simon Pratt as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Responsible for driving the development and implementation of the Portman Group’s strategic growth initiatives and ensuring overall operational efficiency.

Portman Embraces Latest Technology

Portman took an important step in its business strategy by bringing in brand new CRM and customising it to their needs, ensuring efficiency, data visibility accuracy and integrity would sit at the forefront of future operations.

Read the article for more…

15 Years of Business – Overcoming Challenges & Driving Growth

Despite facing economic hardships and a challenging landscape, Portman Asset Finance celebrates 15 years of success and continues its journey of growth and innovation.

Portman Rebrands – Launching New Website and Transitioning to Portman Finance Group

Portman Asset Finance underwent a significant rebrand, marking the launch of a new website and the transition to Portman Finance Group. This change reflects the company’s continued evolution and broader vision for the future.

Portman Financial Solutions is formed

The new entity is also now FCA Registered (FRN 976903), enhancing the group’s comprehensive financial service offerings. Visit www.portmanfinancialservices.co.uk for more details.

Portman Makes Senior Appointments to Drive Post-Pandemic Growth

Portman Asset Finance has strengthened its senior leadership team in preparation for a period of post-pandemic growth, positioning the company for continued success and expansion in the evolving market.

Read the article for more detail…

Portman Asset Finance Joins First Ever Hosted Broker Panel at Funding Circle’s Full Circle Bi-Annual Company Event

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Sponsor & Presenter of Business Innovation Award at SME Northamptonshire Business Awards 2022

Portman was honoured to sponsor and present the Business Innovation award at the SME Northamptonshire Business Awards 2022

Portman Presents Family Business of the Year at the SME Northamptonshire Business Awards 2022

Portman Awarded: Gold Broker Award 2023

Portman Finance acquires new flagship HQ

Portman Finance Group has purchased a new 43,000 square foot flagship head office, located opposite Barclaycard on Northampton Business Park, to support the continued growth and expansion of the business.

• Alex Read said: “Our post-pandemic strategy has yielded significant growth within the business over the last few years. We have adapted well to the changing needs of our customers against a challenging economic background and continue to grow and expand our product offering.”
• Simon Pratt added: “Purchasing a flagship office is not only a statement of intent for Portman, but a demonstration of Portman’s long-term commitment to our business customers as the firm continues its growth into a leading hybrid broker-lender.”

This marks a significant milestone in Portman’s expansion and evolution, providing more space for staff and enhancing the company’s reputation as both a lender and broker.

Read the articles for more… Business Magnet, Leasing Life

Portman Asset Finance Ltd took home the Adam Massen Cup

Aldermore teams up with former England footballer Mark Hateley for sixth anniversary of charity five-a-side tournament

Read the Article for more..

NACFB shortlist for Commercial Broker Awards 2023

Deal of the Year – Sponsored by Time Finance

Portman Finance has been shortlisted for the Deal of the Year award at the NACFB Commercial Broker Awards 2023, sponsored by Time Finance. The full shortlist for the prestigious awards has been revealed, and Portman is proud to be recognised for its outstanding contributions in the industry.

Read the article for more detail…

NACFB Broker Academy Celebrates First Graduates

Jack Weston, Sales Director at Portman Finance, was among the first graduates of the NACFB’s Broker Academy. The inaugural cohort of graduates received their CertCFB qualifications, with Weston earning merit recognition for his outstanding performance.

Read the article for more detail…

Portman Reaches £1 Billion Milestone

Portman reached a significant milestone, securing £1 billion in funding to UK SMEs to date, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the growth and success of small and medium-sized businesses across the country.

Portman Finance Group Celebrates 1st Group Christmas!

Portman is proud to have been awarded the Gold Broker Award 2024. As the business continues to expand, Portman has also reached a significant milestone with a headcount of over 100+ internal staff, highlighting the growth and increasing demand for a larger, dedicated team.

An Update to Meet Business & Staff Needs

Portman Careers has improved and updated from its existing scheme, revamped to better accommodate the updated business needs and enhance the offering to its staff.

Take a look at our Careers section for more…

Portman Finance Group Launches Own-Book Products ‘Revolve’ & ‘Flex’

– A New Era for SME Lending

Portman Finance Group marks a new chapter with the official launch of its own-book lending products, Portman Revolve and Portman Flex, offering innovative finance solutions to SMEs.

We’re thrilled that after a tense final, Portman’s football team were the proud winners of the Simply Cup 2025. A great effort by everyone who came to play at Battersea, and a huge congratulations to our team for their brilliant performance. Most importantly, we are delighted to have helped raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK (CRUK) through this event!

A big thank you to Simply Asset Finance for hosting and bringing together the industry for some friendly competition – and an additional thank you and well done to all who participated.