UK asset finance market hits £47.7bn as AFUK50 celebrates tenth edition

The tenth edition of the Asset Finance UK 50 (AFUK50) Report has officially been released, providing the most comprehensive annual review of the UK’s leading business equipment and fleet lessors. Published by Asset Finance Policy and Asset Finance Connect, and sponsored by Solifi, the 2025 report is now available for download at assetfinanceconnect.com/af50uk-2025.

Now in its tenth year, the AFUK50 has become the definitive benchmark for assessing performance and trends in the UK asset finance market. This year’s edition highlights a sector that has not only weathered economic headwinds, but continued to grow and evolve.

Key highlights from the 2025 report show that the total net investment in business equipment leasing across the top 50 firms rose to £47.7 billion, representing an 8.0% year-on-year increase. Of those 50 firms, 40 either maintained or expanded their portfolios over the year, and 24 achieved double-digit growth, a clear sign of renewed market confidence and business investment.

While the top of the table remains relatively stable, the report points to dynamic change further down the rankings, with several fast-growing independents making significant gains. The findings also show a gradual shift in market structure, as non-bank lenders continue to increase their influence.

“This is the tenth annual edition of the AF50, and although there’s been limited change at the top-end of the market over the ten years besides the exit of Barclays, further down the table there are many new names, with one in four firms having joined the index since the first edition. The AF50 shows the highly competitive and diverse nature of the market, with total lending split between different types of bank and non-bank lenders owned in the UK, Europe and elsewhere.”

The report also highlights the growing role of technology and innovation in asset finance. From automation and AI to improving access for SMEs, the 2025 edition features industry perspectives on how strategic tech investment is transforming the way lenders operate and support their customers.

With expert commentary, market analysis, and the latest rankings based on audited and publicly available data, the AFUK50 once again serves as a benchmark for performance and change in the UK asset finance space. As the sector powers on into a new economic cycle, this tenth edition captures a vital moment in its evolution.