Reward Funding has supported the next phase of growth at 4PL with a £4m revolving credit facility, giving the family-run warehousing and fulfilment business the means to secure long-term ownership of its core sites.
The funding provides a level of flexibility that traditional lenders were unable to match, allowing the business to move quickly on a time-sensitive opportunity.
Founded in 2016 by father-and-son team Robert and Michael Burton, 4PL has grown organically from its early beginnings in the fulfilment sector in 2012.
Rising demand for its services has driven continued expansion of its warehousing footprint, putting the business in a strong position when the opportunity arose to purchase the company that owns its operational sites for a price agreed in advance.
The acquisition marks a significant strategic shift for the business, underpinning long-term cost certainty and improving margins.
However, the presence of multiple funders and a locked-box structure meant traditional lenders paused. Reward instead structured a fast, flexible facility tailored to the deal’s complexity and evolving requirements.
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 at 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.”
