Finding the right funding structure when the case is not straightforward

How Lander Automotive secured a bespoke refinance and growth funding solution

Funding is rarely just about securing capital. For many businesses, the real challenge is finding the right structure: one that supports the immediate requirement, protects future flexibility and gives lenders confidence in the strength of the business.

That was the position for Lander Automotive, a business backed by GIL Investment, which needed a refinance and growth funding package tailored to its specific circumstances.

Although the business was fully solvent, the transaction was not simple. The case involved a number of complexities, including challenging payment structures with JLR and a change in finance leadership during the process. In a sector where lenders can be cautious, the business needed a funding adviser able to manage the market, address concerns and keep momentum through to completion.

A complex funding requirement

Lander Automotive required a facility that could support both refinancing and future growth. This meant the funding solution needed to work not only for the business as it stood, but also for where it wanted to go next.

The process required careful positioning. Lenders needed to understand the business, the sector dynamics and the specific payment structures involved. They also needed confidence that the proposed facility would be sustainable and commercially appropriate.

In situations like this, the right funding process can make a material difference. A single lender approach may not create enough choice or leverage. A properly managed competitive process can help identify the most suitable funding partner, improve terms and reduce unnecessary cost.

Running a competitive funding process

K3 Deal Advisory led a competitive funding process on behalf of Lander Automotive.

The transaction was led by Scott Peters, with support from George Fawcett and Darra McCarthy-Paul. The team approached the funding market, managed lender engagement and generated more than seven offers for the business.

That level of competition was important. It gave the client options and allowed the team to compare not only headline funding availability, but also structure, flexibility, fees and overall commercial fit.

The team also worked through lender concerns around the payment structures with JLR and maintained progress despite the client’s Financial Director leaving during the transaction. In a demanding process, clear communication and disciplined execution helped keep lenders engaged and the transaction moving.

Securing the right partner

Following the competitive process, support was secured from Close Brothers.

The resulting facility provided a bespoke refinance and growth funding solution aligned with the needs of the business. It supported the immediate refinancing requirement while also giving Lander Automotive a platform for future growth.

The process also delivered meaningful commercial value. Competing facilities included potential annual fees ranging from £40,000 to £120,000, making lender selection and negotiation critical to the final outcome.

This was not simply a case of finding funding. It was about securing the right facility from the right partner, on terms that worked for the business.

Why the process mattered

For businesses operating in more complex sectors, funding outcomes often depend on how the opportunity is presented to the market.

Lenders will look closely at working capital, payment cycles, customer concentration, management information, sector risks and leadership stability. Where there are additional complexities, those issues need to be anticipated and addressed early.

A competitive process helps create options, but it also needs to be carefully managed. Too little information can make lenders cautious. Too much complexity without a clear explanation can slow the process down. The role of the adviser is to present the case clearly, manage questions efficiently and protect momentum.

For Lander Automotive, that approach helped secure a funding solution that supported both refinancing and growth.