Atom bank has provided a commercial mortgage of more than £950,000 to Zipex, the country’s only zip manufacturer, in a deal that will refinance the business’s original purchase loan.

The Leicester-based company, which has been producing zips in the UK for almost 40 years, remains in the same premises it has occupied for three decades. Managing director Neil Cockerill, who joined Zipex 15 years ago, acquired the business two years ago.

The new facility from Atom bank is interest-only, fixed for five years, giving the borrower greater certainty over costs.

Mark Jones, director of broker Copper Swan, took the case to several lenders but said Atom’s offer was the strongest, combining competitive pricing — 0.5% below other quotes — with more flexible terms and a willingness to address a technical issue that could have cost the client thousands.

Spencer Ford (pictured), regional business development manager at Atom bank, said: “This case is a great example of how the Atom bank approach is supporting British businesses. The combination of sensible underwriting, a slick process and competitive pricing has meant Zipex has the funding to fasten their future.

“Brokers are bringing their business clients to Atom bank because they know the pricing will be fair, as it’s based on the borrower’s individual circumstances, while our flexible underwriting means we are better able to overcome complex elements that may deter others.”

He added that the lender had made more than 100 enhancements to its broker portal in the past year, alongside simplifying its stressed interest rate, with the aim of speeding up cases and delivering better value.

Jones said: “Atom bank has become our go-to lender because, when a case has quirky elements, they’re more likely than most to understand it. They combine a big bank mentality, in terms of having the appetite for cases like this, but with the flexibility that comes from a digital bank approach.

“The underwriting is sensible, and if there are any issues, the communication is clear and proactive, which can make a huge difference.

“With this case, some lenders might have been put off over the management of the business technically being ‘new’, but Atom has been sensible and open throughout. The client is thrilled as they have got a great rate and felt that Atom believed in him and what he is hoping to achieve.”