Performance Finance completes acquisition of Shire Professional Funding
Performance Finance has completed its acquisition of Shire Professional Funding Limited trading as Shire Professions Finance (“Shire Professions Finance” or “SPF”), with completion on 19 October 2026.
The transaction unites two established forces in specialist lending to create a market-defining hybrid funder. By combining Performance Finance’s direct lending facility with Shire’s extensive broker panel, the business occupies a uniquely placed position in the UK market—delivering an unmatched blend of direct capital access and broad market coverage tailored specifically to legal practices, wealth managers, accountancy firms, barristers, and other professional businesses.
Setting a New Benchmark in Hybrid Funding
This hybrid model gives the business a distinct competitive edge:
- The Power of Dual Capability: Practices gain direct access to fast, in-house funding alongside the breadth of an extensive external lender network.
- Maximum Choice & Tailored Solutions: Combining direct lending with specialist brokering enables custom terms and flexible funding options for every practice requirement.
- Deep Sector Track Record: Performance Finance brings a history of close to £1bn in delivered funding, while Shire Professions Finance contributes over 15 years’ practice-level experience and key alliances, including its strategic partnership with the Law Society of England and Wales.
Tailored Product Versatility
The combined entity provides unmatched flexibility across key operational needs:
- Cashflow & Working Capital: Rapid funding for VAT and tax liabilities, Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) renewals, disbursements, and general working capital requirements.
- Growth & Development: Dedicated capital for practice acquisitions, firm mergers, IT infrastructure investments, and strategic expansion.
- Partner & Regulatory Solutions: Specialised facilities for SRA Practising Certificates, partner capital loans, buy-ins, and dedicated regulatory funding.
Continuity & Leadership Evolution
Clients will continue to receive the dedicated service they trust. Shire Professions Finance will continue to trade in its existing format from its Mobberley office, with its entire team staying in place to maintain seamless relationship management.
The business transition is supported by a planned leadership structure:
- Craig Reid, former sales director, steps into the role of managing director to lead Shire Professions Finance into its next chapter.
- Martyn Jones, outgoing managing director, transitions to a consulting role to provide ongoing strategic guidance and preserve long-standing client relationships.
Stuart Burn, managing director of Performance Finance, said: “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.”
Craig Reid, incoming managing director at Shire Professions Finance, added: “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.”