Linkline set to accelerate growth with support from Shawbrook

• Linkline Transport Limited is a family led, warehousing and logistics business based in the Midlands
• The business wanted to enhance their services and expand into additional warehousing sites
• Shawbrook delivered a hybrid funding package combining a Confidential Invoicing Finance and a cash flow facility

Founded in 1993, Linkline offers logistics, haulage, warehousing, and pallet network services across the UK. The business has grown exponentially in recent years under the leadership of Managing Director, James Bowes who assumed the position in 2021. Under James’ leadership the company expanded into the warehousing sector and is now looking to accelerate its growth and move into further sites.

Shawbrook’s hybrid funding package worth a total of £12.5 million, includes a £5 million Confidential Invoicing Finance loan to support working capital requirements. In addition, a structured cash flow facility to support expansion plans is included within the deal. The funding allows Linkline to enhance their current services as well as providing them the headroom needed to explore expansion into additional sites in the near future.

Dave Hilton, Partner at Mazars conducted the Debt Advisory process on the deal. Matt Ingram at Squire Patton Boggs acted for Shawbrook and Dave Easdown of Knights Legal acted for Linkline. The Financial Due Diligence was completed by Knights Transaction Services.

James Bowes, Managing Director of Linkline Transport, said:

“Linkline at its heart is a family-owned enterprise and having grown up with the company it is exciting to see the growth we have experienced. Shawbrook has been a fantastic partner throughout the process and ultimately offered us a package that could not be matched in its scope and flexibility.”

“I greatly look forward to continuing to drive the business forward, with a particular focus on our high-quality warehousing facilities and am pleased to be able to do so with the support of Shawbrook.”

Dave Hilton, Partner at Mazars, said:

“I have had a great relationship with both Shawbrook and Linkline for some time and it was a real pleasure to bring these parties together to facilitate this deal.”

“Linkline is a promising enterprise that has seen an exceptional level of success in recent years. With the leadership of James being coupled with the funding from a proven lender like Shawbrook, I have no doubt the business will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Daniel Martin, Senior Director at Shawbrook, said:

“Linkline are a strong family led enterprise who have been growing at a phenomenal rate in the last few years and we believe this additional funding will help them build on the fantastic platform they already have.

“James has been a driving force behind the incredible growth they have experienced. His leadership has taken the business from strength to strength, and we look forward to supporting him as the business continues to expand.”