There is a new landscape forming in the region’s banking market. Just 12 months ago, the picture was unclear, with many unwilling to lend to any great degree, and job losses hampering positive progress. But as a degree of confidence begins to return, many of the big guns have been making noises again.
The Royal Bank of Scotland and NatWest have pledged a £1bn lending pot to help manufacturing businesses across the country; Barclays has released £150m in new funding for small businesses through the European Investment Bank (EIB) Loan Support Scheme; and HSBC’s Going International report shows how exporters are on the target list for lending facilities.
But what real inroads have been made? In this feature, Insider will talk to banks, advisers and companies to determine the health of the current lending climate. Does clarity exist between corporate UK and the lenders on pricing? How many small businesses have been able to take advantage of these schemes? And what lessons have been learned on both sides?
We will also report on the emergence of Santander in the North West. How will it win market share? And what progress has already been made?
Editorial deadline: 12th March 2010
Editorial contact: Michael Taylor 0161 907 9709
Ad copy deadline: 12th March 2010
Ad contacts:
Clare Wild 0161 907 9747
Dan Butcher 0161 907 9742
Avril Larkin 0161 907 9740
Mark Perkins 0161 907 9749