Overlay

Cutting pollution and fighting climate change by improving the circularity of consumer electronics

Founded in 2018, Raylo Group operates a leasing platform for consumer electronics based on a ‘circular’ model that boosts the circular economy for devices. Their innovative “lease-and-reuse” approach optimises device use, extending the life of smartphones, laptops, and tablets – reducing carbon emissions and pollution through refurbishing devices and recycling the packaging.

Enhancing circularity in the typically waste-heavy consumer electronics industry

Following the initial funding of £25m in 2022, our Speciality Finance team has now structured an up to £65m refinancing of Raylo’s Revolving Credit Facility to further support Raylo’s growth ambitions and new product development. NatWest played a crucial role in assisting with the development of Raylo’s Green Financing Framework and securing a positive Second Party Opinion (SPO) from S&P Global Ratings. According to the ICMA & LMA compliant SPO, S&P highlighted how Raylo’s Green Financing Framework contributes to climate risk mitigation and the prevention and control of pollution.

Supporting the UK Speciality Finance sector with key sustainability challenges, including climate change mitigation

Richard Fulton – Co-founder and Chief Risk Officer, Raylo: “Working with NatWest on the green loan served as a catalyst for formalising and enhancing Raylo’s sustainability data and governance, including the establishment of an ESG committee. We’re excited to expand our relationship with NatWest and to be recognised for our commitment to sustainability. The SPO from S&P Global Ratings validates our circular business model and allows us to offer even more affordable prices to our customers. As we continue to grow, we’re determined to lead the way in making technology both accessible and sustainable.”

 

John Whinnett – Speciality Finance Director, NatWest: “We were delighted to support Raylo with this financing structure which reflects the ESG ambitions of the business. This latest green loan demonstrates NatWest’s continued support for finance companies in the UK and in particular those who are championing sustainable solutions for their customers.”

 

Vishal Saxena – Climate & ESG Capital Markets Vice President, NatWest: “This innovative solution is structured to support Raylo’s strategy for minimising carbon emissions throughout the entire product lifecycle by optimising device usage. We’re looking forward to seeing Raylo’s model succeed, grow and be adopted and adapted by our other Specialty Finance clients to support their decarbonisation objectives.”

The information provided in this article has been prepared by National Westminster Bank Plc (NatWest) for information purposes only and is subject to change from time to time. The information and views expressed should not be treated as advice or a recommendation of any kind. NatWest makes no representation, warranty, undertaking or assurance of any kind (express or implied) with respect to the adequacy, accuracy, completeness, or reasonableness of the information provided and disclaims all liability for any use you, your affiliates, connected companies, employees, or your advisers make of it. NatWest accepts no liability whatsoever for any direct, indirect, or consequential losses (in contract, tort or otherwise) arising from the use of this material or reliance on the information contained herein. However, this shall not restrict, exclude, or limit any duty or liability to any person under any applicable laws or regulations of any jurisdiction which may not be lawfully disclaimed.

 

Copyright 2024 © National Westminster Bank Plc. All rights reserved.

 

scroll to top