Many of us were surprised by the UK’s decision to leave the EU following the referendum last month, and it inevitably sent shock waves throughout the UK business community and international markets, as everyone tried to predict what kind of impact the decision would have.

A month on from the referendum, and although there is still some uncertainly as to what the future will hold, in typical British fashion there are strong signs that it is ‘business as usual’ for many UK companies. Although reports show that hiring and spending is generally down since the Brexit vote, the pound appears to be stabilising with the appointment of Theresa May as Prime Minister, signalling that investors are anticipating greater stability.

Certainly here at Ignition, we are as busy as ever, with no discernible impact on the number of SME clients applying for finance to grow their businesses. In fact, with current low interest rates, many businesses are taking advantage of the low cost of borrowing.

Whether in favour of ‘remain’ or ‘leave’ it seems SMEs are staying positive and making the best of the situation, which can only bode well for the future of UK business.

A new Pizza takeaway and delivery shop is opening today on Fore Street in Liskeard, with help from local asset finance provider, Ignition.

Big D’s Pizza will serve fresh pizzas and jacket potatoes, offering a small seating area, takeaway option and local delivery service.

Fit-out is now complete, with all kitchen equipment including special pizza ovens funded via Ignition, which has particular experience in providing finance for clients in the catering industry.

Owner, Dennis Williams, who also runs a cleaning and maintenance business in Plymouth, recently purchased the unit which has been empty for over two years:

“We came to visit Liskeard and immediately loved the town and saw the potential here. It’s a lovely area with plenty of customers and lots of sunshine!

“We got in touch with Ignition to help us get the business started.  They offered such a low interest rate, the bank didn’t even come close.”

Based in Truro, Ignition is a leading provider of vehicle and asset finance for SMEs, offering finance for a wide range of assets from plant and machinery to vehicles and business equipment.  Director, Paul Caunter, comments:

“It’s always costly starting a new business, so many start-ups come to us for financial help to purchase essential equipment to get them up and running.  Big D’s Pizza is offering a popular service in a prime location, so it’s sure to be a success.”

The MA in Leasing and Asset Finance, a collaboration between Falmouth University and The Leasing Foundation, has announced that Paul Caunter, Director of Ignition Asset Finance, will be joining the team as Associate Lecturer.

Paul has been in the vehicle & asset finance business for 23 years, 15 years with a large Corporate Bank and 8 years with Truro-based Ignition Asset Finance, recently acquired by STAR Asset Finance. He will continue as Director at Ignition, whilst providing advice and support to students and assisting in the development of the new MA course.

Paul will initially help the Foundation develop case studies for the Module in Leadership, Innovation and Strategy. In this module, students will explore the high-growth, intensely competitive industry environment, where increasingly sophisticated business customers are demanding easier access to more flexible finance, expect better customer service and access to more flexible finance, expect better customer service and access to online services. Students on the module will explore contemporary case studies with a focus on the leadership, innovation and strategy challenges that companies in the industry face.

Paul Caunter comments: “It is very positive to see Falmouth University offering a practical and business-focused course in leasing and asset finance, helping to develop skills and expertise in the industry. I’m delighted to be involved.”

The part-time MA course, which starts in September 2016, is particularly suitable for those already working in the industry who wish to accelerate their career, or for those working in a related finance and business area wishing to enter this dynamic industry.

Exploring content delivered online using Falmouth University’s Learning Space online platform, students will be supported by academic supervisors from Falmouth University and mentors from The Leasing Foundation.

The Ignition team will be at the Royal Cornwall Show this week, ready to discuss your financial requirements and provide solutions to boost your business, whatever your needs.

We offer finance for a wide range of assets from plant and machinery to vehicles and business equipment. This includes anything from coffee machines and HGVs to solar panels.

Why not make an appointment for us to visit your stand to discuss a new business opportunity or new supporting dealer relationship?

Call us to book your appointment at a time convenient to you:

• Thursday 9^th June – Ed Williams, Business Development Manager, 07583 918027
• Friday 10^th June – Paul Caunter, Director 07920 747547
• Saturday 11^th June – Rob Guy, Business Development Manager, 07342 888001

We look forward to seeing you!

As well as providing asset-based lending for machinery, equipment or vehicles, Ignition now has access to an innovative provider of general business loans, which are available for non-tangible spend.

Unsecured loans from £5,000 to £200,000 are available and can be used for a variety of business purposes, such as:

• Launching a marketing campaign
• Recruiting additional staff
• Developing your website or IT
• Refurbishing your premises

The service is quick and simple, with decisions made and funds transferred within days.

• No application fees – only pay on acceptance
• No early repayment charges, settle at any time
• No business plans or forecasts required

Contact us to find out more on [email protected] or 01872 272900.