BNP Paribas' leasing arm launches telco channel push
BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions hits out at banks as it announces intent to grow its business with UK telecoms manufacturers, distributors and resellers
BNP Paribas' leasing arm is tapping up the telecoms channel to help it push finance to SMEs struggling to fund technology upgrades.
BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions already works with the likes of BT, Mitel, Alcatel-Lucent, Nimans and Daisy but is intent on growing its UK telecoms finance business further.
The leasing outfit said the banking crisis had left a black hole in SMEs' funding options as they look to upgrade their creaking telecoms infrastructures.
Martin Ardern, who is heading BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions' team of telecoms specialists, said: "The knock-on effect on telecoms suppliers is a smaller order book with fewer conversions.
"Our proposition to channel partners is simple: to help them sell more by providing market-leading financial products. For example, we are able to fund entire solutions including hardware, software and services."
Ardern's team will look to support existing accounts but is also prospecting for new relationships with other manufacturers, distributors and resellers.
Those who sign up will enjoy access to a menu of additional services, including an online credit decision tool, marketing support, training and "generous" incentives that help establish a financing culture within the sales organisation.
The announcement follows research suggesting that more UK firms are turning to asset finance in the wake of banks' reluctance to lend.
Ardern said businesses are facing a tightened credit environment and finance was the obvious solution.
"Our solution for partners to continue selling through this malaise is to include a finance quote on every proposal," he said.
"We work with our partners to structure quotes that reflect the unique financing requirement of every customer, helping to add value in the sales process for the partner and ensuring the customer gets maximum value for their budget."