Drumlithie Inn leverages Barclaycard Cash Advance to upgrade business

Our story

Drumlithie Inn is a newly renovated village pub with delicious food and a wide range of alcoholic beverages.

The challenge

When David and Ian took ownership of the Drumlithie Inn in 2020 it required extensive renovations. Having spent most of their savings completing some of the work, and facing further Covid-induced lockdowns, the pair decided to explore funding options to finance the remaining updates.

David and Ian initially enquired with traditional finance providers. However, they were unable to find an option with equitable approvals, expedited access to funds and flexible payments – common challenges for small businesses like the Drumlithie Inn. Undeterred, they discovered the Barclaycard Business Cash Advance – a revenue-based financing product powered by Liberis.

  • It’s exactly what a small business like ours needs. We don’t have the financial resources to wait for weeks to get a decision.

    Drumlithe Inn
    Ian
  • The solution

    Having completed the streamlined application process, David and Ian secured funding without delay. They underscored the value of this seamless service: “It’s exactly what a small business like ours needs. We don’t have the financial resources to wait for weeks to get a decision.”

    Another enticing benefit of working with Liberis was the revenue-based payment model. With a percentage split of card sales agreed upfront for payment, they knew the automated service would be manageable – providing much-needed financial clarity.

The results

Gaining access to the funds in a matter of days meant they could elevate the business by making the remaining upgrades. This included diversifying their revenue streams by creating a function room and a commercial kitchen, allowing them to host large social gatherings. They also benefited from the cash flow needed to purchase more stock upfront for busy periods, allowing them to achieve economies of scale and save in the long run.

  • The revenue-based model proved invaluable during the pandemic when trade ceased before returning gradually.
  • Having invested over £250k, additional funding allowed Ian and David to continue growing the business. Since taking over, they’ve managed to increase turnover by 58%.