Portman Finance Group named in 2025 FEBE Growth 100

Portman Finance Group has been recognised as one of the UK’s fastest-growing founder-led companies in the FEBE Growth 100 list for 2025. The announcement places the Northampton-based financial services firm alongside some of the country’s most dynamic and high-performing businesses.

Now in its fourth year, the FEBE Growth 100 celebrates privately-owned UK companies with revenues between £3 million and £200 million, where founders remain actively involved in shaping the company’s future. Past honourees include household names such as Huel, Gousto, Flight Club, Trip, and Au Vodka.

Founded in 2007 by Alex Read, Portman Finance Group began as a small business finance broker.

Today, it stands as one of the UK’s leading independent providers of loans and asset finance, originating more than £330 million in funding annually for British SMEs.

Over the last three years, Portman has experienced exceptional growth, tripling its team size and increasing revenues by over 500%. The company has also evolved from a pure broker into a dual model of broker and direct lender, allowing it to deliver flexible and tailored financial solutions.

Portman’s success has been driven by its ongoing investment in people, technology, and customer experience. Under the leadership of CEO and founder Alex Read, COO Simon Pratt, and CCO Ben Laidler, the company has developed a proprietary underwriting algorithm to intelligently match clients with the right funding options and launched bespoke lending products aligned with SME needs.

“Being named to the FEBE Growth 100 is a testament to the dedication of our people and the trust of our clients,” said Alex Read, CEO and Founder of Portman Finance Group. “Our hands-on leadership approach means we stay close to our clients and our team.

“We’ve adapted quickly in a challenging economic landscape—expanding our offering, enhancing our technology, and staying focused on the evolving needs of UK businesses.”

Recognising the UK’s top founder-led enterprises

The FEBE Growth 100 recognises companies that combine commercial success with founder-led vision. All entrants are UK-registered, privately owned, independent, and meet stringent criteria including two-year CAGR growth, operating profit, and continued founder involvement.

“The Growth 100 isn’t just a leaderboard – it’s a tribute to the founders pushing boundaries, taking risks, and building brilliant businesses against all odds,” said Charlotte Quince, founder of FEBE.

Portman’s inclusion in the 2025 list confirms its place among the UK’s most ambitious and fast-growing businesses — and highlights its pivotal role in supporting the country’s SME economy.