Manufacturing
Finance for CNC machines, production lines, forklifts, robotics and factory equipment. GDFS helps manufacturers fund capital investment without tying up working capital or disrupting operations.
Manufacturing businesses face a constant tension between keeping machinery current and protecting the working capital that keeps production moving. A single CNC machining centre can cost £80,000–£400,000; a press or injection moulding machine considerably more. Meanwhile, production lead times tie up cash in raw materials and work-in-progress long before any invoice is raised — leaving manufacturers perpetually short on liquidity relative to their asset base. Cash flow is cited as a daily challenge by the majority of small and mid-sized UK manufacturers.
Asset finance allows manufacturers to acquire the equipment they need without the capital shock of an outright purchase. Hire purchase builds ownership over 2–7 years, with the production capacity the machine generates from day one helping to service the cost. Finance lease keeps equipment off the balance sheet and makes technology refresh easier at the end of term — valuable in sectors where CNC capabilities and automation advance rapidly. Refinancing existing plant can also release equity quickly when a production opportunity requires fast capital.
GDFS works with lenders experienced in manufacturing assets, including specialist machinery with limited secondary markets where mainstream banks sometimes hesitate. We are comfortable with older plant, niche equipment and multi-asset tranches. Whether you are funding a single machine, expanding a production line or releasing equity from a workshop of owned equipment, we will find a structure that works for your business.
What we can fund
Manufacturing assets we finance
Below is a guide to the types of equipment and assets GDFS regularly arranges finance for in this sector. Not sure if yours qualifies? Just ask — if it has business value, there's likely a lender on our panel who'll consider it.
This list is illustrative, not exhaustive. Finance is subject to status, lender criteria and broker fees may apply.
Finance solutions
Products suited to Manufacturing
Why GDFS
A broker who knows your industry
We're not a comparison site or a call centre. We're an independent broker who takes the time to understand your business, your cash flow, and the unique challenges of your sector — then we find the right deal from a panel of 30+ lenders.
- FCA-authorised credit broker
- Access to 30+ specialist lenders
- Decisions typically within 24–72 hrs
- Personal broker assigned to every case
- Dorset-based, serving businesses UK-wide
- 5-star rated on Trustpilot
FCA authorised & regulated
Your interests are always protected
How we get your deal done
Tell us what you need
Call, email or fill in the form. No obligation, no credit check at this stage.
We search the market
We compare rates and products across 30+ specialist lenders on your behalf.
You choose the best deal
We present the options clearly — you decide what works for your business.
Funds in your account
We manage the paperwork end-to-end. Typical decisions within 24–72 hours.
Common questions
Manufacturing finance FAQs
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Can you finance a new production line or CNC machining centre?
Yes — production equipment, CNC machining centres, robotics, and automated handling systems are all assets we can finance. We work with lenders familiar with manufacturing assets, which typically means better rates and longer terms.
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We have slow-paying customers affecting our cash flow — can you help?
Invoice finance allows you to unlock up to 90% of outstanding invoice values as soon as they're raised, rather than waiting 30, 60, or 90 days. It's widely used in manufacturing and can be arranged confidentially so your customers are unaware.
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Can I refinance the equipment already in my factory?
Yes. Sale-and-leaseback and refinancing can release equity from assets you already own — useful for funding expansion, covering a tax bill, or simply improving working capital without selling the kit.
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Do you work with manufacturers who supply large corporates?
Yes — invoice finance is particularly effective for manufacturers with long payment terms imposed by larger customers. We'll match you with a facility suited to your debtor profile and average invoice values.
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What size deals do you handle for manufacturing businesses?
We handle deals from around £10,000 up to several million. For larger transactions — such as complete production line installations — we'll approach multiple lenders simultaneously to ensure the most competitive terms.
Ready to talk manufacturing finance?
Get a free, no-obligation quote today. We'll do the lender legwork — you focus on your business.