An Australian non-bank lender has revealed a new corporate identity to provide enhanced brand support as it positions itself to become a significant industry force.
The Australian First Mortgage (AFM) rebrand follows National Mortgage Company’s (NMC Group) acquisition of the non-bank lender in March 2015, and forms part of NMC Group’s forward-looking strategy, which will see it originate more than $1.5 billion of new loans over the coming year.
NMC Group chief executive Steve Dover said the company had undertaken a number of significant initiatives to integrate AFM into its operations over the past six months, and the new logo unites the two entities from a brand perspective and visually demonstrates that AFM is now part of a larger and stronger group.
“NMC Group is the largest privately owned non-bank servicing the Australian market, with more than $4 billion of loans under management,” Mr Dover said.
“While the AFM offer has always been strong and attractive for brokers and their clients, it will now command an even more formidable market position with the strength of the NMC Group behind it.
“Non-bank lenders have traditionally been considered by some to be a lesser alternative to the major banks but this perception is continually changing. There are a number of forces at play that are creating significant opportunities for non-bank lenders, especially those that provide a genuine alternative to the major lenders.”
Mr Dover said NMC Group is well positioned to capitalise on the growth opportunities that lay ahead.
“The AFM acquisition will play an important part of our forward-looking growth strategy, so we are pleased to unveil a new corporate identity that not only respects the history of both business, but also connects with our customers both now and into the future,” he said.
[Related: AFM appoints regional manager]