Shawbrook acquires Playter

Shawbrook Group plc (the ‘Group’ or ‘Shawbrook’) today announces the acquisition of Imployapp Limited (trading as ‘Playter’), a fintech lending proposition that provides established UK SMEs with credit lines and short term cashflow loans. 

Playter’s lending platform is architected to deliver fast, consistent credit decisions by using automated workflows that turn complex data into clear, actionable insight. The platform is built on proprietary technology and includes ‘Ari’, its AI-enabled broker hub, which makes it simple for commercial finance brokers to assess their client’s credit profile and to apply on their behalf at the click of a button. 

Since launching in 2021, Playter's platform has delivered over £100m of lending to UK SMEs for a range of purposes, from VAT funding and working capital to business expansion, training and recruitment. 

The acquisition will combine Playter’s proven technology and proposition with Shawbrook’s existing digital capabilities, distribution network and funding advantages. 

Playter’s platform and team will further strengthen Shawbrook’s ability to support more SMEs with fast, flexible finance for investment and working capital.

Neil Rudge, Chief Banking Officer, Commercial, commented: 

“SMEs still turn to their advisers and brokers to find the funding they need to invest in growth, efficiency and productivity. But one-size-fits all funding does not work for business owners and management teams who need fast, flexible facilities that reflect their specific needs and circumstances. 

Playter has built a data led platform that helps brokers do exactly that, simply.  Combining its talented team, proven proposition and innovative technology with Shawbrook’s existing offering is an exciting opportunity, allowing us to further build on our presence in this large and growing segment of the market.” 

Jamie Beaumont, Founder & CEO at Playter, said: 

"Playter was created to give SMEs and brokers a clearer, faster and more accurate route to funding. Our proprietary AI platform has demonstrated that technology can materially improve how businesses access finance and how brokers support their clients. 

Combining Playter’s technology with Shawbrook’s market reach, capabilities and funding resources, we are exceptionally well placed to broaden access to fast, flexible finance for UK SMEs in this important segment of the market."