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Navigating the tough terrain of food retail and manufacturing
Food retailers and manufacturers are in a fast-moving, ever-changing industry where staying competitive isn’t easy. Rising ingredient costs, higher labor expenses, and inflation squeeze already tight profit margins. Add to that the pressure of keeping up with evolving food safety regulations, and it feels like a constant uphill battle. Supply chain issues, like shipping delays and material shortages, can halt production and hurt revenue. On top of all this, the need for new technology—like automated systems and better inventory management—requires serious investment. In an industry with razor-thin margins, finding the right financing to grow or even keep up can seem nearly impossible.
Food industry growth is hot—and your business can sizzle too!
Despite the challenges, the future of the food industry is bright, with growing consumer demand and shifts toward healthier, more sustainable products. But to seize these opportunities, access to capital is crucial—and that’s where an SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake comes into play.
SBA loans, backed by the U.S. government, offer affordable and flexible financing options tailored to the unique needs of food retailers and manufacturers. SBA 7a loans are ideal for short-term needs such as working capital, purchasing inventory, or covering operational expenses. This loan may also help food businesses weather supply chain disruptions, providing the cash flow to keep production running smoothly.
Whereas SBA 504 loans are designed for long-term investments, such as purchasing equipment or upgrading facilities to meet regulatory standards. Whether it’s adopting new technology or expanding production capacity, SBA 504 loans offer low-interest, long-term financing to help your business grow.
At First Bank of the Lake, we understand the unique financial challenges facing food retailers and manufacturers. With over $1.1 billion in SBA financing provided to small businesses, our experienced team is here to guide you through the loan process. Whether it’s operational costs, supply chain management, or facility upgrades, we’re ready to help you secure the funding you need to stay competitive and keep your business moving forward.
The Numbers
in Loans 2024
Largest SBA Lender^
Small Businesses Helped 2020-2024
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The First Bank of the Lake rep and I bonded over faith, fishing and finance. They got my loan done in under 30 days in very, very trying circumstances.
Issac Reed
President, Reed’s Moving Services
If we ever need business capital, my first call would be to First Bank of the Lake. Why would I look elsewhere?
Barry Norfleet
Co-founder, Lifetime Green Coatings - Kentucky
I got my $345,000 SBA loan approved from First Bank of the Lake in 35 days!
Kasia Anderson
President, Woof Gang Bakery - Bradenton, FL
First Bank of the Lake was the best banking experience I have ever had.
Andy
Co-founder, President, Winter Park Ski Rental
The bank process was as easy it could be. The biggest thing is how transparent and reliable they were.
Tyler Green
Co-founder, President, Freelite AZ
My First Bank of the Lake rep was great – Easily the finest banker I have dealt with in my life.
Dan Billings
President, Tint World - San Antonio
Big thanks to Emil and the First Bank of the Lake team. I would recommend them to anyone else in a heartbeat and I would absolutely use them again.
Rock Katic
President, Perfect Moving
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