How to Offer Finance for Garden Sheds

Understanding Customer Finance for Garden Sheds and Summerhouses

Customer finance is a powerful tool for increasing sales, letting buyers spread the cost of their purchase over time. For garden sheds and summerhouses—often higher-ticket items—offering finance can attract new customers and encourage larger purchases.

"With finance, our average shed sale went up by 30%. Customers loved being able to afford what they really wanted."
— Mark T., Garden Structure Retailer

Why Offer Finance?

• Increase sales conversion: Reduce cost barriers and make high-value sales more achievable.
• Broaden your customer base: Appeal to buyers who may not have ready cash.
• Boost order values: Buyers with access to finance often spend more.
• Gain a competitive edge: Stand out among other garden retailers.

Types of Finance You Can Offer

• Interest-Free Credit (0% APR): The customer pays in instalments with no added cost.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Defers payment for a set period.
• Interest-Bearing Loans: Lower monthly payments over a longer period, with added interest.

Steps to Start Offering Finance

1. Partner with an FCA-authorised finance provider or broker like Kandoo.
2. Understand your obligations: You’ll need to comply with UK financial regulations (FCA rules).
3. Integrate finance into your sales process: Add finance messaging online and in-store; train staff to mention finance options during sales calls.
4. Promote finance options: Use your website, social media, and at point-of-sale displays.
5. Application and approval: Customers complete a quick application—usually online or with tablet in-store—and get an instant decision.

Callout:
Did You Know? You don’t need to be a financial expert to offer finance – your finance partner handles the complex parts, while you focus on selling.

Compliance and Best Practice

Offering finance means following strict rules to protect customers:

• Disclosure: Clearly state finance is subject to status and affordability checks.
• Marketing: Promotions must be fair, clear, and not misleading.
• Training: Brief your staff so they can answer basic finance questions or direct to the finance provider.

Tips to Maximise Success

• Highlight finance early: Feature flexible payments in adverts and product descriptions.
• Upsell: Suggest premium sheds/summerhouses if budget is less of a concern.
• Regular reviews: Monitor usage and get customer feedback to refine your approach.

Common Questions Answered

Do I need FCA authorisation?

• If you only introduce customers to a regulated finance broker like Kandoo (without giving advice), you usually don’t need your own authorisation.

How quickly do I get paid?

• Most providers pay you in full soon after the customer agreement is approved, reducing cash flow worries.

Is customer credit-checking required?

• Yes, the finance provider will always conduct creditworthiness checks before approval.

Pull Quote

"Offering finance isn't just about bigger sales—it’s about making garden projects accessible to every customer."

Still Have Questions?

Ready to boost your sales or want advice on the best finance for your business? Contact Kandoo today for expert guidance and friendly support.

Key Takeaways

• Partner with a licensed finance broker
• Promote your finance offering at every touch point
• Stay up to date with FCA guidance

Offering finance for garden sheds and summerhouses is straightforward and beneficial for retailers looking to grow. Make flexible payment part of your growth strategy, and help more customers enjoy their ideal garden retreat!