Performance Finance acquires Shire Professions Finance

Performance Finance has completed its acquisition of Shire Professions Finance (SPF), bringing together two established specialist finance providers to expand funding options for professional practices across the UK.

The transaction, completed on 19 October 2026, combines Performance Finance’s direct lending capabilities with Shire Professions Finance’s established broker network, creating a hybrid funding model offering access to both in-house capital and external lenders.

The combined business will provide tailored funding solutions for legal practices, accountancy firms, wealth managers, barristers and other professional services businesses.

Performance Finance, established in 2005, has delivered close to £1bn in funding, while Shire Professions Finance brings more than 15 years of experience supporting professional practices, including strategic partnerships with the Law Society of England and Wales, the Bar Council and the Law Society of Scotland.

The acquisition will enable the combined business to offer a wider range of finance solutions, including working capital, VAT and tax funding, professional indemnity insurance (PII) finance and funding for business expansion.

Additional facilities will support practice acquisitions, mergers, IT investment, partner capital contributions and regulatory requirements, including Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) practising certificates.

By combining direct lending with access to a broader panel of funders, the business aims to provide greater flexibility in structuring finance arrangements to meet individual practice requirements.

Stuart Burn, Managing Director of Performance Finance, commented:

“We are so excited to welcome the Shire Professions Finance team into the Performance Finance family. This partnership is all about teamwork and bringing together two passionate, client-focussed teams.

“By combining our direct lending capabilities with Shire’s fantastic broker network, we’re creating something truly special that gives our clients complete flexibility and peace of mind.”

Shire Professions Finance will continue operating under its existing brand from its Mobberley office, with all employees remaining in place to maintain continuity for customers and funding partners.

Craig Reid, previously Sales Director, has been appointed Managing Director of Shire Professions Finance, succeeding Martyn Jones, who will move into a consulting role to provide strategic guidance and support existing relationships.

Reid said: “Joining forces with Performance Finance feels like a natural next step for our team and our clients. We’re staying right here in Mobberley with the exact same team everyone knows and trusts, but now we get to collaborate even more closely with Stuart and his team.

“Together, we can offer our clients an incredible range of tailored funding options, making it easier than ever for law firms and professional businesses across the UK.”