Barclays launches clinics to support manufacturing businesses through Brexit

Barclays has announced that it will be hosting over 100 clinics for businesses from March, including workshops for manufacturing clients, to provide additional support through Brexit.

The events will be hosted in Barclays bank branches and Eagle Labs, the bank’s co-working innovation spaces for entrepreneurs and businesses, across the UK.

The clinics which will focus on managing cash-flow and working capital, exporting goods abroad, supply chain management, labour, and protecting businesses against fraud.

They will also look at using data and technology to help boost businesses, from apps and automation, through to the bank’s partnership with Fintech MarketInvoice, which enables businesses to get funding against their outstanding invoices, unlocking fast access to cash.

Over 5,000 invites will be issued during the following weeks to both SMEs and corporate clients across the country.

A number of Barclays’ industry specialists will host the clinics in some areas to provide sector specific advice, with a spotlight on manufacturing, construction, agriculture, hospitality and healthcare.

Ian Rand, chief executive of Barclays Business Bank, said: “SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK’s economy and the good news is that we continue to see strong lending activity, so we know things aren’t slowing down as we approach Brexit.

“However, some businesses are concerned about the current uncertainty, and our network of relationship managers are here to help them navigate the challenges and opportunities the following months will bring.”

The bank also plans to host a series of digital webinars over the coming months to further support manufacturing businesses across the country with planning and resilience.