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Food Retailer Financing
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Top 5 SBA franchise loan lender*
+$600 million franchise loans funded
+$2 billion in SBA loans since 2020
+2,000 SBA loans funded since 2020
Navigating the tough terrain of food retail and manufacturing
Food retailers and manufacturers are in a fast-moving, ever-changing industry where staying competitive isn’t easy. Rising ingredient costs, higher labor expenses, and inflation squeeze already tight profit margins. Add to that the pressure of keeping up with evolving food safety regulations, and it feels like a constant uphill battle. Supply chain issues, like shipping delays and material shortages, can halt production and hurt revenue. On top of all this, the need for new technology—like automated systems and better inventory management—requires serious investment. In an industry with razor-thin margins, finding the right financing to grow or even keep up can seem nearly impossible.
Food industry growth is hot—and your business can sizzle too!
Despite the challenges, the future of the food industry is bright, with growing consumer demand and shifts toward healthier, more sustainable products. But to seize these opportunities, access to capital is crucial—and that’s where an SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake comes into play.
SBA loans, backed by the U.S. government, offer affordable and flexible financing options tailored to the unique needs of food retailers and manufacturers. SBA 7a loans are ideal for short-term needs such as working capital, purchasing inventory, or covering operational expenses. This loan may also help food businesses weather supply chain disruptions, providing the cash flow to keep production running smoothly.
Whereas SBA 504 loans are designed for long-term investments, such as purchasing equipment or upgrading facilities to meet regulatory standards. Whether it’s adopting new technology or expanding production capacity, SBA 504 loans offer low-interest, long-term financing to help your business grow.
At First Bank of the Lake, we understand the unique financial challenges facing food retailers and manufacturers. With over $1.1 billion in SBA financing provided to small businesses, our experienced team is here to guide you through the loan process. Whether it’s operational costs, supply chain management, or facility upgrades, we’re ready to help you secure the funding you need to stay competitive and keep your business moving forward.
Real business owners. Real results.
Woof Gang Bakery SBA Loan Case Study
After years in HR, Kasia followed her passion for animals and, with a $345K SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake, quickly launched her Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming franchise — already nearing breakeven just months in.
Tint World SBA Loan Case Study
After losing his wife, a friend, and his life savings, Dan Billings reinvented his life with a Tint World franchise — and with guidance and an SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake, his business is thriving and he’s already eyeing a second location.
Lifetime Green Coatings SBA Loan Case Study
Father and son duo Barry and Parker Norfleet launched six Lifetime Green Coatings franchises with a $400K SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake — quickly setting up operations and nearly breaking even within just three months.
What Our Customers Say
Gave Me the Confidence I Needed
Huge thanks to Tammy and Brandi. Tammy was my first point of contact and gave me the confidence I needed since there isn't a local branch near where I live. Brandi has been answering ALL my questions since and has excellent follow up and has taken great care of me.
— Michele Houston
Genuinely Interested in Helping My Business Succeed
First Bank of the Lake was a tremendous help in securing a 504 small business loan for my company. Every staff member I interacted with was professional, friendly, and genuinely interested in helping my business succeed.
— Don Kamb
Exceptional Service
I cannot say enough positive things about my experience working with Eric as my SBA loan officer. From start to finish, he provided exceptional service and went above and beyond to ensure that every issue we encountered was resolved quickly and efficiently.
— Bryan Crowe