Shawbrook Bank is in talks to acquire ThinCats, a lending company for medium-sized businesses, in a potential £180m deal managed by Fenchurch Advisory Partners. ThinCats has a track record of providing £381m in funding, with £2bn in loans to UK businesses. CEO Amany Attia leads the company.

The acquisition would bolster Shawbrook’s SME lending services, with ThinCats experiencing a surge in lending to owner-managed businesses post-autumn budget. Shawbrook, founded in 2011, serves over 500,000 customers and is equally owned by BC Partners and Pollen Street. Market volatility delayed its anticipated £2bn IPO on the London Stock Exchange.

Shawbrook’s acquisition of ThinCats would enhance its alternative financing offerings as the bank prepares for its market debut. Shawbrook has considered various corporate moves, including potential mergers and acquisitions involving Metro Bank, Starling Bank, and the Co-operative Bank. CEO Marcelino Castrillo leads the bank.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Shawbrook Bank reportedly in talks to acquire ThinCats