Business loans for wholesale and distribution

Saturday 20th September 2025

Last updated: 23rd December 2025

  • Cash flow challenge: Wholesalers and distributors often face cash flow gaps caused by upfront stock purchases, transport costs, and delayed payments from buyers.

  • Perfect for: UK-based wholesale and distribution businesses managing bulk stock orders, supplier contracts, and seasonal trading cycles.

 

Novuna helps wholesale and distribution businesses access fast, flexible business loans to manage stock purchases, logistics, and supplier costs, either through our award-winning in-house service or by comparing providers and ensure you get a great deal for your situation.

 

Boost your cash flow Speak to an expert


Keeping your supply chain funded and your shelves stocked

Wholesale and distribution businesses thrive on volume and timing, buying large quantities of stock, fulfilling customer orders, and maintaining smooth operations across warehouses and logistics networks.

When buyers take 30–90 days to pay, or suppliers require advance payment, cash flow can quickly tighten. A business loan gives you the flexibility to stay ahead of demand while keeping your supply chain fully funded.

 


How business loans support wholesale and distribution businesses

Business loans provide accessible capital for key operational expenses in wholesale and distribution, helping you maintain efficiency and momentum.

Typical uses include:

  • Stock purchasing – buying large quantities of goods ahead of demand.
  • Supplier and shipping costs – paying transport partners or freight agents on time.

  • Warehouse investment – expanding capacity or upgrading storage systems.

  • Technology upgrades – improving ERP, inventory, or order tracking software.

 


Types of business loans for wholesale and distribution

Different finance options suit different business models within wholesale and distribution. Here are the most effective solutions and how they help:

1. Working capital loans

Designed to keep your operations running smoothly, especially during quieter trading periods.

Advantages:

  • Manage daily expenses like stock, wages, and transport.
  • Balance cash flow during supplier or buyer delays.

  • Maintain liquidity without overextending your credit line.

Explore working capital loans to maintain a healthy cash position all year.

 

 

2. Merchant cash advances

Flexible funding for wholesalers with consistent card-based or recurring payments.

Advantages:

  • Repay as a percentage of sales – ideal for seasonal businesses.
  • No fixed monthly repayments.

  • Quick approval and tailored limits.

Get access to merchant cash advances to help fund growth and manage revenue peaks.

 

 

3. Asset finance

Perfect for funding warehouse equipment, vehicles, and logistics machinery without upfront costs.

This funding is particularly useful for:

  • Spread large purchases over affordable instalments.
  • Preserve working capital for operational expenses.

  • Keep your business equipped with up-to-date machinery and technology.

 

 

4. Short-term and quick business loans

Ideal for managing immediate costs, staffing, or cash flow gaps.

  • Quick approval and access to funds.
  • Minimal paperwork and flexible terms.

  • Keeps operations running during peak demand or emergencies.

 Find out how quick business loans can secure fast working capital when demand spikes.

 

 

5. Invoice finance

Releases cash tied up in unpaid invoices from retailers, suppliers, or trading partners.

Advantages:

  • Access up to 90% of invoice value within days.
  • Improve liquidity without adding debt.

  • Smooth cash flow between large contracts and payments.

Explore our invoice finance to bridge payment gaps and keep cash moving.

 



How Novuna Business Cash Flow can help

We’ve helped wholesalers and distributors across the UK improve cash flow, fund expansion, and strengthen supply chain reliability through tailored business loan facilities.

Speak to our experts today and we will help you find a great fit for your situation.  

We compare a range of providers to get you the right product and a great deal

Fast decisions. Flexible options. Funding over £2bn to more than 1,000 SMEs every year.

Complete the form below to compare and save with Novuna Business Cash Flow:

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