Why was winning a Financial Reporter Award important for more2life?
Winning Best Later Life Lender at the Financial Reporter Awards is a fantastic achievement. We have worked hard on our relationships with advisers and brokers as well as product innovation. We have won this award six times now and each year we continue to strive to maintain our high standards so that we can be recognised in our field.
What has changed for your business since 2014?
The business has grown phenomenally in just a few years, in 2014 our total lending figures were just over £100 million, in 2018 we reached more than £650 million total lending. This growth is due to our investment in the business, the growing equity release market, new funders who have come on board and the creation of new market leading products.
What do you think has been the best development in the industry since 2014?
Innovation. The level of product innovation across the later life lending since 2014. In 2014, there were around 40 products on the market but this has grown to more than 200 in 2019*.This market development helps clients who are able to find the right product for their circumstances, assists advisers who are able to more effectively service their clients which in turn leads to lenders writing more business. It is this product innovation which has impacted the industry the most since 2014, and something which we believe will continue to seeing the coming years.
What advice would you give a business hoping to scoop an award this year?
Winning an award at the Financial Reporter Awards is not about adding a trophy to a cabinet (although it is a great feeling!) it is about being recognised by your peers and industry colleagues, it is a reflection on how you have performed across the last 12 months and striving to succeed as a business. To anyone hoping to win an award this year, don’t just focus on winning the award, focus on being a great business and recognition should follow.
If you could pick one song to play at the Financial Reporter Awards party, what would it be?
‘We are Family’ by Sister Sledge. It’s a great song, all generations love it and epitomises our workplace culture at more 2 life.
