The survey, based on responses from 33 member companies which account for 73% of new business written in 2012, also suggests that the vast majority (96%) expect to see an increase in lending to small and medium sized enterprises.
Commenting on the figures, Julian Rose, Head of Asset Finance at the Finance and Leasing Association, said:
“The Government’s Business Bank – more details of which are expected to be announced by the Chancellor this week – is focused on getting finance to growing small businesses. This survey confirms that the asset finance market is a well-established means of providing what these businesses need.
“It will make sense for the Business Bank to build on that by working through bank and non-bank asset finance companies.”
