Clearview Midlands September 2014 - Issue 154 | Page 98

businessNEWS The VEKA UK Group’s marathon runner Amy raises nearly £43 per mile! As if she’s not busy enough in her new role as Installer Scheme National Sales Manager, Amy Grundy of The VEKA UK Group has found the time (and energy!) to raise £1100 for The Alzheimer’s Society by successfully taking part in the Liverpool Marathon. Amy explains: “Alzheimer’s was VEKA’s chosen charity from January to June and I was delighted to help contribute to the total we donated. I was kindly sponsored by friends, family and colleagues and I was thrilled to complete the Liverpool Marathon in four hours and six minutes. I think it was knowing that I was supporting such a worthy cause that helped to spur me on!” Amy expressed her sincere thanks on behalf of all concerned to her sponsors. Aside from the marathon, a further £1,200 was raised by the team at The VEKA UK Group through various fund-raising efforts including a baking competition, the Burnley & Pennine 10k and a dress-down day. VEKA plc, 01282 716611, www.vekauk.com, [email protected] EIB & SGEF TO PROVIDE £100M FOR INVESTMENT IN NEW EQUIPMENT BY UK SMES The European Investment Bank (EIB) has agreed to provide £100m to Societe Generale Equipment Finance (SGEF) to support investment by UKbased SMEs over the next two years. The dedicated lending programme, which includes a matching contribution from Societe Generale Equipment Finance, is expected to help firms invest in transport, high-tech and industrial equipment by providing lower cost f inancing for up to eight years. “Investment in new equipment is often essential to remain competitive and create new jobs. The European Investment Bank is committed to supporting small and medium sized companies and is pleased to work with Societe Generale Equipment Finance to achieve these shared goals in the UK. Financing that addresses the specific needs of small firms is even more important at a time of improving business confidence.” said Jonathan Taylor, EIB Vice President. “We are particularly pleased to partner with the EIB so we can bring additional equipment finance facilities to small and medium size businesses across the UK,” said Giles Turner, MD of SGEF UK. The new programme will provide medium and long- term financing and an alternative to regular bank lending. Companies will be able to use new equipment as collateral that reduces risk and has a positive impact on pricing. Eligible investment includes commercial vehicles and agricultural machinery, IT, office and medical equipment, production and packaging machines and construction equipment. FAIRTRADES CONSUMER FINANCE OPTION EXTENDS ONE STOP SERVICE OFFER Leading home improvement trade association, FairTrades, has signed an agreement with long established sector specialist, Shermin Finance, to extend the organisation’s ‘one stop’ offer for its trade members and home owners. Chosen from a list of potential partners, FairTrades was impressed with the 98 SEP 2014 straightforward and easy POS credit products provided by Shermin that allow homeowners and tradesmen alike, to understand easily the options available and the terms and conditions of what they may be undertaking. A range of schemes can now be offered by FairTrades’ members including Buy Now Pay Later, interest-free, interest-bearing and simple low rate. The service competes with banks, building societies and other lenders both in rates but more crucially, on service levels. Shermin backs its offer through a nationwide team of experienced account managers on hand, says the company, to help, train and advise installers throughout the finance provision process. FairTrade’s Steve Turner says: “There has never been a better time for tradesmen to offer their customers finance and our partnership with Shermin allows them to do so confidently with ease.” www.fairtrades.co.uk or call 08707 384 858. To read more, visit www.clearview-uk.com