Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has underlined its commitment to supporting the UK’s flourishing franchise industry by appointing Suky Dehal as Franchise Development Manager.

Based at Lloyds Bank’s flagship Birmingham office on Colmore Row, Suky’s arrival will see him work closely with Head of Franchising, Richard Holden, as the bank looks to support the sector’s role in driving the economic recovery.

Suky has worked for Lloyds Bank for six years since graduating from Nottingham Trent University, and operated most recently as a Specialist Business Manager within the bank’s retail and business team.

In his new role, he will be tasked with building close links with franchise brands to help identify new growth opportunities, and supporting local business managers across the country to provide prompt, professional support and finance to clients both old and new.

Encompassing everything from food stores to restaurants, franchising is seen as an increasingly attractive proposition for many entrepreneurs, as the model enables them to benefit from the support and experience of a ready established brand and concept.

The sector is thought to be worth more than £13billion to the UK economy, and Lloyds Bank is committed to helping entrepreneurs and franchisors prosper.

Richard Holden, Head of Franchising at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Lloyds Bank is committed to helping Britain prosper, and it’s clear that franchising can play a key role when it comes to achieving this philosophy.

“Suky’s appointment brings a wealth of retail and business banking experience to the team, and is an important step as we look to reinforce the support we offer to both franchisors and franchisees, and he will play a pivotal role in the ongoing development of our proposition for the sector.”

Suky Dehal, Franchise Development Manager at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “I’m pleased to join Lloyds Bank’s dedicated team as we further enhance our support for the franchising sector, which with its range of sectors and opportunities makes it an attractive proposition for new business owners. I look forward to working with new and existing clients to offer the guidance and finance they need to maximise the potential of their investment.”