Manufacturing companies have been tested to their limits over the last few years, with the pandemic and other economic factors causing a price increase in manufacturing equipment and raw materials.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt supply chains and cash flow, forcing many manufacturers to resort to alternative financial measures, such as business loans or manufacturing equipment financing.

But do these financing alternatives have a business's best interests at heart? Let’s explore them further.

No matter what industry you’re in, every business needs some help with its cash flow now and then. And whether you need to pay suppliers or purchase new equipment you’ve likely considered approaching a lender or credit provider.

Most business loan lenders promise the world. However, there are a few things to be wary of. Small business loans or manufacturing equipment finance options often have high-interest rates and soaring upfront or ongoing fees. These expenses can be demanding for any business, especially those with existing cash flow issues.

And with tighter lending regulations at play, some manufacturing companies may be rejected altogether, leaving a black mark on their business's credit file.

Small business loans and credit cards are also incredibly risky — if you default on a payment, the lender or credit provider may come after your business or personal assets. And in some instances, the lender may also ask you to use your company as collateral against the loan.

So with all this in mind, you might be wondering how do I improve cash flow in a manufacturing business without the risk and added expense? It’s time to meet Marmalade.

Over the last few years, we’ve seen many businesses miss out on opportunities to reach new heights because of unsteady cash flow. So we decided to do something about it.

Marmalade is a world-first in invoice payments, allowing businesses to get paid on their own terms. Manufacturers can get paid early for their eligible invoices and receive the funds within 24 hours. This puts the power back into your hands and gives you the freedom and flexibility to grow your business however you see fit.

With Marmalade, you’ll have total visibility over your invoices from when you issue your first invoice to when the funds are transferred to your bank account. Unlike other financing options, Marmalade is the only platform specialising in paying invoices and the only solution that isn’t a liability.