Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank has announced that it plans to increase its total lending to small business customers by over a quarter in 2009. This follows record lending from the bank in 2008, which saw total small business lending balances increase by 49%.

Steve Pateman, managing director, corporate and commercial banking, UK Commercial Bank said: "Alliance & Leicester has attracted 100,000 small businesses to its range of better value and straightforward banking services over the last three years. 2008 was another record year for the bank with the number of current accounts, lending facilities and deposit accounts increasing significantly.

"In the current economic climate, cashflow is the key to business survival and we are committed to increase lending balances further in 2009, to help customers to stabilise their business finances. With many commentators highlighting that business conditions are tough and customer feedback showing that small business owners are feeling the pinch, I would urge businesses to review their banking needs as a matter of priority to make sure they are getting value for money and a service that reflects their needs."

Santander recently announced that SME lending across its UK brands increased by 30% year on year in 2008.

Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank offers a full range of banking services for businesses with a turnover up to £150m, including a UK-wide network of regional business centres. The bank's range of deposit accounts and overdraft facilities track Bank of England base rate, ensuring that any changes are immediately passed on to customers.

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