Delapre Post Office is a village post office located in the East Midlands market town of Northampton. As an integral part of the community, it serves the local community with a comprehensive range of products and services including postal items, personal banking, a 24-hour ATM, and a host of other essential post office facilities.
The post office is owned by Sarmelan Subramaniam who purchased it in April 2022. It is a well-established business and community hub that forward thinking, innovative, and community focused Sarmelan wanted to transform. He was confident that he could grow the business and deliver a better customer experience with the introduction of an off-licence facility and extended opening hours.
Like many in his position, Sarmelan found it difficult to access funding from high street lenders. After approaching BEF in December 2022, he worked with Habib Karimi, Associate Investment Manager to secure low interest finance for start-up businesses.
Thanks to Habib’s support, Sarmelan secured a £20,000 Start Up Loan in February 2023 which has used to transform the retail space with the installation of new fridges, a new POS system, and stock. In addition, the post office now trades for an extra four hours per day thanks to the loan helping to safeguard three jobs and create one job.
Sarmelan, owner of Delapre Post Office, said: “I had a dream and BEF made my dream come true. When I was looking for funding options, I found BEF helped small business owners like me. The whole process was very straightforward. Habib was very helpful and gave useful advice and suggestions whenever we needed it.”
Habib Karimi, Associate Investment Manager at BEF, said: “Sarmelan contacted BEF with a clear vision for the development of his business. His enthusiasm and passion for his business meant it was pleasure to support him. I wish him every success as he starts to reap the rewards of his dream.”
Start or grow your business with a Start Up Loan delivered by BEF
A Start Up Loan is a government-backed personal loan available to individuals looking to start or grow a business in the UK. You borrow £500 to £25,000 over 1–5 years at a fixed rate of 6% per annum. Up to four founders and partners can apply per business.
Apply online now.
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