Reward backs 4PL acquisition with £4m flexible facility

Reward Funding has provided a £4 million revolving credit facility to support a strategic acquisition by 4PL, the family-run warehousing and fulfilment specialist. The funding package enables 4PL to take long-term control of key warehouse sites, securing a deal structure that other lenders were unable to back.

Founded in 2016 by father-and-son team Robert and Michael Burton, 4PL has grown steadily since the pair entered the fulfilment sector in 2012. The business has expanded its warehousing footprint in response to rising demand for its services, prompting an offer to purchase the company that owns its operational sites at a previously agreed price. Bringing the warehouses in-house is expected to strengthen margins and provide long-term cost certainty.

However, the proposed acquisition involved multiple funders and a locked box mechanism, leading traditional lenders to pause. Reward stepped in with what it described as a fast and flexible solution tailored to the deal’s complexity.

Robert Burton, co-owner of 4PL, said the transaction represents a pivotal moment for the company. “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,” he said.

“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, said the deal highlights the firm’s appetite to support ambitious, founder-led businesses. “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, which advised 4PL, added: “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.”