Reward Funding has provided a £4 million revolving credit facility to 4PL, enabling the family-run fulfilment business to acquire the company that owns its key warehousing sites.
The funding package gives 4PL long-term control over its warehousing operations, supporting the next stage of growth for the business founded by father-and-son team Robert and Michael Burton.
Established in 2016, the firm has expanded steadily in response to rising demand for its fulfilment and warehousing services.
The opportunity to purchase the business behind the warehouse sites came with a pre-agreed price. Bringing the properties under 4PL’s ownership is expected to improve margins and provide greater certainty over operating costs. However, the structure of the deal, involving multiple funders and a locked box mechanism, meant traditional lenders were reluctant to proceed.
Reward Funding shaped its facility to accommodate the complexities and timescales involved, offering a flexible structure aligned to the founders’ goals.
The business was seeking a lender able to navigate the shifting requirements of the transaction and provide certainty of delivery.
FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS SECURES LONG-TERM CONTROL
Robert Burton, co-owner of 4PL, said: “4PL has achieved consistent growth over the years, so being given the chance to purchase the business behind the warehouses was a significant move for us.
“The acquisition required a lender who could understand the complexity of the deal, and meet the timescales.
“This isn’t just a property deal, it’s a fundamental shift in how we operate. Reward moved fast, understood our journey and backed our ambition. We’re excited to see where this next phase takes us.”
Mark Swindell, business development director for Reward Funding, added: “4PL is a brilliant example of a strong, family run business with a clear track record of consistent growth and a compelling opportunity ahead of them.
“While this was the first transaction with Winchester Corporate Finance, it formalises a long-standing relationship and sets the tone for future partnerships.
“This deal shows how we see risk differently. Where others saw roadblocks, we saw an opportunity to deliver finance that was fast, tailored and at scale.”
Cameron Miller, business development manager at Winchester Corporate Finance, said: “We are delighted to have advised 4PL and arranged this £4m facility with Reward Funding.
“Reward’s swift execution and flexible approach were key to delivering the transaction on time and in full alignment with 4PL’s ambitious growth strategy.”
Pictured (L-R): Mark Swindell (Reward Funding), Robert Burton (4PL), Michael Burton (4PL) and Cameron Miller (Winchester Corporate Finance)
