flexible finance Archives - Payment Assist

Payment Assist can now announce a partnership with procurement group Purchase Direct to deliver a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) solution across the UK’s franchised dealer network. This collaboration makes it easier for drivers to spread the cost of their repairs with zero fees and interest-free monthly payments, which simplifies transactions.

It’s a partnership that’s mutually beneficial. Dealerships benefit from a greater level of operational efficiency, and drivers get an easier way to manage the cost of keeping their car roadworthy.

Why it Matters for Car Dealerships

Dealers are set to gain a lot from the partnership. Unexpected repairs are often where customers hesitate to go ahead, and if repair centres are able to offer flexible payment terms delivered through a simple platform, they can increase amber work conversion and boost retention.

Because the Payment Assist system plugs straight into Purchase Direct’s payment platform, it also enhances transaction reporting. Businesses can expect to see a reduction in the time spent chasing payments, which reduces administrative burden and improves operational efficiency.

Why This Matters For Drivers

Unexpected repairs are a financial burden on drivers across the UK. Often, such repairs can be highlighted during routine checks like MOTs, presenting motorists with a bill they hadn’t been able to budget for. For jobs like brakes, tyres, and suspension, immediate attention is usually required, which makes access to interest-free car repair finance crucial.

It is in this context that partnering with a procurement group like Purchase Direct makes a tangible difference. Instead of being met with the total repair cost up front, drivers can now spread the cost of car repairs across monthly payments with no added fees or hidden interest. It provides a simple, transparent solution that ensures drivers do not have to choose between road safety and affordability.

Purchase Direct’s simple, ergonomic payment platform already supports almost two-thirds of the franchised dealer network, so the flexible payment option is directly available at the point of payment. The process is simple to use, offering motorists a clear box-tick to choose monthly payments instead of a single bill.

Voices From The Partnership

“Adding Payment Assist technology to our dealer platform is an important step forward. Consistent growth in the BNPL sector shows there is customer demand, and dealer interest is high, thanks to the promise of increased revenue. Ultimately, it’s the driver that benefits most, with affordable monthly payments making it easy to keep their vehicle to the highest standard on the road, so we’re delighted to be working with Payment Assist.” – Sharon Landau, project manager at Purchase Direct.

“Our partnership with Purchase Direct is hugely beneficial in all areas. Adding our BNPL offering to their payment platform will make it easier for customers to pay and for garages to get paid. Minimised up-front costs for drivers, thanks to our flexible, interest-free payments, is a valuable benefit for Purchase Direct customers, and we are excited to bring Payment Assist’s products to such a wide audience.” – Marcus Gregory, CEO of Payment Assist

“This collaboration represents a major milestone in our growth strategy. Purchase Direct’s reach across the franchised dealer sector, combined with our trusted finance solution, creates a powerful proposition for the market. We know from experience how valuable the right payment options can be — for drivers and for dealers.” – Chris Masters, Chief Commercial Officer at Payment Assist.

Need Interest-Free Payments That Work For You?

At Payment Assist, we are proud to be a leading provider of interest-free finance for automotive repairs and servicing. We work with garages, dealerships, and service providers across the country to make it easier for customers to afford the work they need. Our zero-interest, fee-free monthly payment plans remove the pressure of upfront repair bills, helping drivers spread the cost fairly and responsibly. For dealers and garages, our solutions boost conversion rates, retention, and revenue.

If you want to know more about how Payment Assist can support your business, or if you are a driver looking for garages that offer our plans, please contact us today.

FAQ

What does Buy Now, Pay Later mean in car servicing?

It allows drivers to spread the cost of car repairs or servicing into monthly instalments rather than paying everything up front.

Do BNPL options affect credit scores?

We simply check that your card has adequate funds to pay the initial deposit and that your address matches. There is no footprint left on your credit status.

Is it safe for garages to use BNPL solutions?

Yes. Approved BNPL providers handle the payment process securely and ensure garages get paid quickly, reducing financial risk.

Why are more industries moving to BNPL?

Customers prefer manageable monthly payments. It boosts sales and makes services more accessible.

Can BNPL work for emergency repairs?

BNPL is often most helpful in unexpected situations, allowing repairs to be carried out immediately while payments are spread over time.

Why are Flexible Finance Options on the Rise?

Traditional lending can be rigid, and fixed repayment schedules and lengthy approval processes can tie companies down. Flexible finance allows your business to scale borrowing in line with demand. It might mean short-term support that gives the capacity to cover seasonal fluctuations or longer arrangements to back major projects.

The attraction is simple, really; players across markets want certainty without having to sacrifice on agility. A long approval cycle for a bank loan can delay projects, but a quicker route through specialist providers can free up cash when it’s needed most. The global financial situation is uncertain, too, so speed and flexibility are becoming essential.

You Have to Manage Your Cash Flow

No matter the size or sector, being able to manage cash flow is as critical as ever. Late payments, unexpected costs, or an unexpected rise in overheads drain your reserves quickly. Even businesses that might look profitable on paper can find themselves squeezed if cash isn’t available at the right time.

Business finance helps bridge those gaps.

Rather than dipping into savings or holding back on growth plans, companies can get hold of working capital and spread costs. For many, this isn’t about taking on debt unnecessarily but more about smoothing out the bumps so that day-to-day operations aren’t disrupted.

With flexible finance options in place, businesses can pay suppliers on time, cover wages, and invest in stock without waiting for invoices to clear. That stability keeps teams moving forward and avoids the stress of constant firefighting.

Adapting to Market Shifts

Uncertainty has become part of business life, mainly because of supply chain issues, inflation, and customer demand. These shifts have made long-term planning more complicated. In turn, this has created a stronger demand for finance that can be adapted quickly.

A fixed facility might still work for some, but many companies want the ability to increase or decrease their finance depending on what’s happening in the market. That flexibility is especially useful for industries with peaks and troughs throughout the year, like hospitality, for example.

Supporting Growth Plans

Growth often means upfront investment. Hiring staff, upgrading technology, and expanding premises; all of it puts pressure on your finances. Funding these plans entirely from cash reserves just isn’t realistic for many companies.

With flexible finance options, you can break down these investments into manageable payments. This makes it easier to commit to new projects without overstretching. Instead of pausing plans until reserves are built up, use business lending options to grow when the time is right for you.

There’s also a competitive advantage here.

Businesses that act with speed and decisiveness to secure opportunities are much more likely to gain the upper hand. With access to suitable finance options, they can launch products, expand into new markets, or secure contracts while rivals are still arranging funding.

Building Financial Resilience

As we’ve discussed, global finances are far from reliable, which is why financial resilience has become so important. Having a single, dependable business finance arrangement that adapts to circumstances reduces the risk of being caught off guard by sudden changes.

Instead of being exposed to cash flow pressures or forced to pause investment, you can continue operating with confidence, and be confident that your finance is working alongside them rather than against them.

This adaptability means that even when unexpected challenges arise, the same facility can still provide the support required. By using flexible finance options in this way, you’re better positioned to manage your cash flow and maintain growth, without having to juggle multiple arrangements from different loan providers.

Get Flexible Finance Solutions with Payment Assist

At Payment Assist, we support businesses across the UK with a range of flexible finance options designed to make funding straightforward and adaptable. Our business lending division focuses on giving you practical ways to manage cash flow and access business finance when you need it the most. To find out more about how our flexible finance options can support you, get in touch with us today.

FAQs

What is the difference between a loan and flexible finance?

A loan usually comes with fixed terms, but flexible finance can adapt repayments to fit the way your business earns and spends money.

Can flexible finance support short-term needs?

Yes. It can be used to cover temporary costs as well as long-term investments, so it can help your business stay stable during busy or quiet periods.

Does flexible finance always mean higher costs?

No, not necessarily. In many cases, spreading payments makes investment more manageable without significantly increasing the total amount paid.

Why do businesses choose finance instead of using cash reserves?

Paying upfront can reduce working capital and limit flexibility. Finance allows businesses to spread costs while keeping reserves available for other needs.

Is flexible finance only for larger investments?

No. It can be used for both small and large expenses, depending on what best suits the company’s plans.

Car Repair Finance Is the Solution

Instead of paying the entire bill upfront, customers can make affordable monthly payments with no interest added. A £400 repair bill might be met with hesitation, but four monthly payments of £100 make it much more manageable.

0% Finance Makes It Even Easier

By offering a 0% finance option, customers can agree to repairs without the burden of a lump sum or high-interest charges. Unlike bank loans or credit cards, where interest increases the total cost, 0% finance is a safer, more affordable alternative.

Most Customers Get Instant Approval

For bills below a certain threshold, there’s usually no complicated credit check. A valid debit card and a few details are often enough for approval, making 0% finance a simple and accessible solution for most customers.

Interest-Free Car Repair Finance Grows Your Business

Helping customers is the right thing to do, but offering finance also benefits your business.

More Sales and Bigger Jobs

When cost isn’t an immediate barrier, more customers say yes to repairs. This allows you to capture jobs that might otherwise be lost. Customers are also more likely to approve all recommended work now rather than postponing part of it, increasing revenue per visit.

Builds Customer Loyalty and Referrals

Turning a large bill into manageable payments earns goodwill. Customers appreciate the flexibility and trust businesses that support them during tough financial times. They’re more likely to return and recommend your repair centre to others.

Ready to Offer 0% Finance? We’re Here to Help.

If you’re ready to grow your business and offer customers affordable monthly payments, Payment Assist is the solution. As a leading provider of 0% car repair finance, we make it easy for garages and repair centres to integrate this service.

We cover your customer’s repair bill upfront, and they repay in regular, interest-free instalments. This means you get paid immediately while your customers manage their expenses more comfortably. Payment Assist is FCA-regulated and bank-backed, ensuring stability and reliability.

FAQ

Do customers need to pass a credit check to use 0% finance?

We check that their card has the funds to pay the initial deposit and that the address registered on their debit card matches, but we don’t leave a footprint on their credit status, and it only takes a few seconds. If we ever do need to carry out a full credit check, we’ll always get permission first.

What if a customer doesn’t pay for their instalments?

If a customer doesn’t pay on time, then we handle the follow-up, including any late fees. You’ve already been paid for the job, so your garage won’t lose out even if someone defaults on their payment.

How long does it take for a customer to get approved for 0% car repair finance?

Approval is usually instant. In most cases, the customer just needs to provide their debit card details and basic information, and they can be approved in minutes.

When a car is damaged, deciding whether to repair it or replace it can be a tricky choice for many drivers. A recent survey has shed some light on the tipping point at which motorists might decide not to repair their damaged cars and why they might replace them instead. If you run a garage or repair centre, getting a handle on this tipping point and offering flexible finance options can help to increase repair rates. That means your customers can get their cars back on the road rather than feeling forced into an expensive write-off.

Car Repairs Can Be a Real Financial Struggle.

It’s no surprise that the rising cost of car repairs leads people to toy with fixing versus replacing a damaged car. When something major like engine repairs, wheel repairs, or bodywork is needed, a lot of drivers face that same dilemma. The survey – conducted by CarGurus – interviewed 1,000 motorists across the UK.

It found that an unexpected repair bill of £772 is one of the three breaking points that prompt drivers to consider their car a write-off, and look for a new vehicle. Once repair costs approach or exceed this amount, the financial burden can feel overwhelming, especially for those with tight budgets. This explains why nearly three-quarters (72%) of participants in the study said they’d feel stressed at the thought of having to spend money on unplanned car repairs.

Why Do Drivers Go for a Replacement Over a Repair?

There isn’t any single answer to this question, but it seems that the decision to replace a car instead of repairing it stems either from financial limitations or the perceived value of the vehicle. For example, if a car is worth £3,000 and the damage requires £2,500 worth of repairs, it’s easy to understand how this might be seen as a bad investment. They might believe that spending nearly the car’s worth on repairs doesn’t make sense, especially if it’s an older car that might need more repairs in the future.

Convenience could be another key factor.

The cost and hassle of repairs – and the fear of recurring issues – can make buying a new car seem like an easier and more financially sensible option. This is exacerbated by the fact that many new and second-hand dealerships offer finance options to make accessing a new car easier. Immediate financial pressures of car repairs can make it feel difficult or impossible to spend a large, upfront sum on car repairs.

That’s Where Flexible Finance Options Can Help

Flexible finance solutions can help motorists take the necessary steps to repair their damaged cars without having to face the full financial burden upfront. They provide a way to spread the cost of repairs over a manageable period, which makes paying for big jobs like engine repairs, bodywork, or wheel repairs much more feasible.

For lots of customers, this is a massive difference.

The ability to break down the cost of car repairs into smaller, more affordable payments might be the deciding factor between repair and replacement. If you offer interest-free, straightforward payment plans, you can ease the financial strain of the repairs and make it easier for drivers to choose fixing their car over scrapping it and getting a new one.

Why It’s Important to Understand the Tipping Point

If you own a repair centre or garage, you’ve got to get a handle on your customers’ tipping point when it comes to the cost of repairs. This is mainly because it helps you tailor your services and makes them more accessible, but there are other brilliant advantages, too.

Flexible finance could improve retention and trust.

Across sectors, we know that the outlook of customers changes when they feel valued and seen. You can promote a real sense of loyalty by showing your customers that you take their concerns seriously and that you identify with their real-life situations. This boosts confidence both in the repair process and the people who provide it.

Looking for a Flexible Finance Partner?

When your customers are faced with high costs, Payment Assist can help you to help them. Our service helps to break down substantial repair fees into manageable, interest-free monthly payments. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, your customers gain confidence, trust, and a sense of control over their finances.

With Payment Assist, you can:

Offer Interest-Free Payments: Customers pay no additional charges.
Maintain a Simple Application Process: Quick, transparent steps.
Provide Customisable Plans: Tailor instalments to each customer’s circumstances.
Promote Customer Retention: A supportive payment structure encourages repeat visits.

To find out more about how Payment Assist can support your business, get in touch with us today. Our team will be happy to help you.

FAQ

What kind of costs can Payment Assist cover?

Most common repair expenses, from minor jobs to bigger mechanical ones, can be covered.

Are payment plans complicated to arrange?”

No, arranging a plan is very straightforward. You can find out more here.

Is interest applied over time?

Payment Assist provides interest-free instalments, keeping the total cost unchanged.

How quickly can a plan start once approved?

Approved plans begin promptly so that essential repairs can proceed without delay.

Running a garage or repair centre is obviously centred on keeping vehicles on the road, but anyone who’s worked in the industry knows that’s not where the job ends. If you can offer a service that keeps your customers happy and coming back, the benefits are incredible.

For many, car repairs are unexpected and expensive, which is why offering flexible finance like that offered by Payment Assist can be a real game changer. Not only does it provide convenience to the user, but it’s also a great way to grow your customer base and improve your garage cash flow. Let’s have a closer look at how it can help.

Meet Customers Where They Are Financially

Sadly, cars don’t wait for a convenient time to break down. Despite this, your customers still need their vehicles fixed, but repair costs can be a real problem for their budget. By providing flexible finance options through Payment Assist, you’re helping them to spread the cost into manageable payments.

This is good for the customer and good for your business.

In our experience, customers are much more likely to approve larger repair bills when they know they can pay them over time. What does that mean for you? More high-value jobs, less haggling over prices, and fewer customers walking back out the door.

Grow Your Customer Base

Not only does flexible finance keep your existing customers happy, but it also helps you bring in new ones. People talk. When they know your garage offers options that ease financial pressure, they’re more likely to recommend your services to friends and family.

In a competitive marketplace like auto repairs, standing out is non-negotiable. Flexible finance options give you an edge, making your garage a go-to choice for people who want quality service without a crippling upfront bill.

Improve Your Garage’s Cash Flow

Running a garage means juggling costs for a lot of owners. From parts and tools to staff wages and overheads, you’ve often got a lot of irons in the fire. Flexible finance can help you smooth out cash flow issues.

With Payment Assist, you get paid upfront for repairs.

Customers repay Payment Assist over time, but you don’t have to wait for instalments. That means no delays in settling supplier invoices or reinvesting in your business. Steady cash flow leads to far fewer financial headaches and a more stable operation.

Upsell Without the Hard Sell

Offering flexible finance to your customers takes the sting out of upselling. Premium parts or getting any extra work done quickly can have a massive long-term benefit for people using your services, but if they don’t have the funds to pay for it upfront, they probably aren’t going to appreciate getting the hard sell.

With finance options, these upgrades become a lot more accessible. You can explain why going for a slightly more expensive service might save your customer money in the long run and how splitting the costs over time won’t be a big financial strain.

Reduced Declined Repairs

Without finance options, some customers might need or choose to turn down repairs. This can lead to dissatisfied customers and vehicles that come back with bigger issues down the line. Flexible finance removes that barrier.

When a customer can spread the cost, agreeing to large repairs on the spot becomes easier. That helps your garage run efficiently and reduces the time spent chasing return visits or negotiating a lower quote.

Save Time on Payment Chasing

Payment delays can really disrupt your garage’s operations. Chasing customers for unpaid bills takes time and resources, both of which could be better spent elsewhere. With flexible finance, you eliminate the hassle. Customers pay their first instalment at the garage, and Payment Assist handles the rest; no awkward follow-ups and no unpaid invoices.

Boost Your Customers’ Trust

When you offer flexible finance options, you’re showing that you understand – and take seriously – the needs of your customers. That builds trust, and trust encourages long-term loyalty. Customers are much more likely to use a business if they feel it’s taken the time to listen to their concerns and make them a priority. Plus, Payment Assist’s process is simple and transparent, helping you maintain your reputation for honesty and reliability. There aren’t any hidden fees, and approval is straightforward.

Ready to Experience the Benefits of Flexible Finance?

If you want to grow your customer base, improve your garage’s cash flow, and build long-lasting customer loyalty, then Payment Assist makes it simple. Offer your customers a hassle-free way to spread repair costs while you enjoy the advantages of upfront payments and a streamlined service.

There’s no setup cost, and approval is quick and easy. Payment Assist handles the admin, so you can focus on running your garage. Plus, with no interest charged to timely-paying customers, it’s a win-win. Sign up for Payment Assist today or get in touch to see how flexible finance can upgrade your business.

FAQ

Would Payment Assist’s flexible finance benefit my garage?”

Yes – garages receive full payment upfront while customers pay back in instalments. This boosts cash flow and removes the need for payment chasing.

Are customers charged interest with Payment Assist?

No, as long as the customer pays on time, they won’t incur interest or extra fees. It’s simple and transparent.

Can I set a minimum spend threshold for my customers’ finance options?

Yes, garages can set limits for offering Payment Assist, ensuring finance is available for higher-value repairs.

Does Payment assist work for smaller, independent garages?

Absolutely. Payment Assist is designed to suit garages of all sizes, making it perfect for independent businesses looking to grow.

How complex is the Payment Assist process?

It’s not complex at all. Payment Assist’s team provides full support, so integrating flexible finance into your garage is quick and straightforward.