Merchant cash advance for takeaways and delivery businesses

The takeaway and delivery sector has grown rapidly in the UK. Whether you run a traditional fish and chip shop, a pizza delivery business, or a dark kitchen serving multiple brands, the demand for fast, flexible funding has never been higher.

A merchant cash advance is particularly well suited to this sector because takeaway businesses process high volumes of card transactions every day, especially through online ordering platforms.

Why takeaways are a good fit

Several characteristics of the takeaway business model align with merchant cash advance criteria.

• High daily card transaction volumes from both walk-in and online orders
• Consistent revenue with predictable weekly patterns
• Growing proportion of contactless and online payments
• Equipment and marketing investments deliver a clear return

Online ordering platforms and eligibility

Many takeaway businesses generate a significant portion of their revenue through platforms like Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats. Whether this revenue counts towards your MCA depends on how the platform settles payments.

If the platform pays you via your card terminal, those transactions typically count. If payments are settled directly to your bank account, they may not be included in the card transaction assessment. Some MCA providers can factor in platform settlements separately.

Common uses for takeaway funding

Takeaway businesses use merchant cash advances for a range of growth-oriented investments.

• Commercial kitchen equipment upgrades including fryers, ovens, and extraction systems
• Delivery vehicles, e-bikes, or scooters
• Developing your own ordering app or website
• Marketing campaigns to drive direct orders and reduce platform commissions
• Shop front refurbishment and signage
• Food packaging upgrades for better brand presentation
• EPOS system upgrades
• Opening a second location or dark kitchen

Reducing platform dependency

One of the smartest uses of MCA funding for takeaways is investing in your own ordering channel. Third-party platforms charge commissions of 15% to 35% per order. By funding your own website or app with online ordering capability, you can capture more direct orders and keep more of each sale.

The upfront investment in a good ordering system typically pays for itself within months through reduced commission payments.

How much can a takeaway borrow?

The advance amount is based on your card and online payment revenue. A busy takeaway processing £15,000 per month through card terminals and online payments could typically access between £7,500 and £22,500.

Businesses with higher volumes or multiple locations can access larger amounts.

Frequently asked questions