Bamboo

Bamboo: unsecured personal loans in the UK

Bamboo Limited is a UK-based direct lender that provides unsecured personal loans ranging from £2,000 to £15,000, with terms from 12 to 60 months. The company presents itself as an option for those seeking financing with a fully online application process and a quick decision.

Products and conditions

Bamboo's offering focuses on personal loans with a single fixed monthly repayment. The lender applies an annual percentage rate (APR) that, according to its own information, ranges from 26.9% to 49.7%. The company states that it does not charge arrangement or administration fees, nor does it charge penalties for late or missed payments. It also notes that requesting a quote does not affect the applicant's credit score if the application is not approved.

For existing customers, Bamboo offers repeat loans and top-up loans. The former are aimed at those who have already paid off a previous loan and need more financing; the latter allow customers with an active loan to increase the amount, closing the old loan and opening a new one that covers the additional capital and the repayment of the previous loan.

Application process

The application is divided into four steps. First, the user uses a loan calculator to indicate the desired amount, the repayment term and the purpose of the funds, obtaining an instant quote with no impact on their credit score. Bamboo then performs a quick check to determine eligibility and, if favourable, presents a personal loan offer. In the third stage, the applicant must have their bank, employment and income details to hand, which they can upload online. Finally, they confirm their employment status and monthly expenses and submit the application. If additional information is needed, the company's team contacts the customer.

Customer service and team

Bamboo has around 150 employees based in the UK, split between Southampton and London. The company states that its service has been used by more than 150,000 customers. For queries during the process, it offers telephone support on 0330 159 6010 and 0330 159 6013.

Awards and positioning

According to its own presentation, Bamboo has been voted Best Personal Loan Provider five times at the Consumer Credit Awards, in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022. The company describes itself as a direct lender that tailors its products to each applicant's credit situation.

Fraud prevention

The company warns that impersonation attempts may occur in which third parties pose as Bamboo or as bailiffs or debt collectors. Bamboo stresses that it never charges a fee to apply for a loan and recommends that anyone receiving an unexpected call or payment demand hangs up and contacts the company through official channels.

Corporate and regulatory information

Bamboo Limited is registered in England and Wales with company number 05629336 and ICO registration number Z1380902. The entity is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) with reference number FRN 720565. Its registered office is at 1st Floor, Grenville House, Nelson Gate, Southampton, SO15 1GX.

Location and contact

1st Floor, Grenville House, Nelson Gate, Southampton, SO15 1GX