Handelsbanken has been recognized as the preferred business bank by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in a recent survey conducted by the Competition and Markets Authority. The survey, published in February 2026, showcases the bank’s dominance by topping three out of five categories, including relationship/account management, with an 85% satisfaction rate, SME overdraft and loan services at 72%, and services in branches and business centers, also at 72%. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Handelsbanken has excelled in these areas.
Despite its strong performance in various metrics, Handelsbanken fell behind in overall service quality and online/mobile banking services. Monzo garnered the highest ratings in these categories, achieving an 85% satisfaction rate for overall service quality, while also leading in online/mobile banking with a score of 90%. Mettle by NatWest and Starling Bank followed closely in these rankings.
The survey sampled 20,450 small business customers throughout 2025, focusing on their willingness to recommend their banking providers to others. Alongside Handelsbanken’s triumphs, Metro Bank ranked just after it in overdraft and loan services, while Barclays was rated lowest across multiple categories, including overall service quality and branch service.
Handelsbanken showcased strong results in relationship management, where it surpassed competitors like Mettle by NatWest and Monzo. Additionally, in branch service, it maintained a slight edge over Metro Bank, which is known for its spacious banking environments.
Why this story matters:
- Handelsbanken’s strengths highlight the importance of customer relationships and in-person banking for SMEs.
Key takeaway:
- While Handelsbanken excels in relationship management and loan services, it faces challenges in online banking compared to competitors like Monzo.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Monzo’s focus on digital services and customer experience positions it as a significant contender, emphasizing the growing importance of technology in banking.
