London-based Zilch has raised nearly €150.69M after recently introducing services aimed at improving payments and retailer engagement.

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London-based Zilch, a consumer payments platform, has raised $175M (nearly €150.69M) through a mix of debt and equity financing. 

The round was led by investment group KKCG, with participation from BNF Capital and several other strategic investors. 

The financing also includes an extension of Zilch’s securitisation facility arranged with Deutsche Bank.

Karel Komarek Jr., CEO of KKCG US Advisory, says, “KKCG is all about finding new solutions in established industries and creating sustainable value. Zilch’s impressive track record demonstrates that its approach to using technology to challenge the status quo and re-engineer the credit landscape delivers exceptional value for consumers and businesses. We’re looking forward to being part of this exciting next stage of their journey.”

The funding comes as Zilch recently introduced two new services aimed at merchants and consumers.

The first, Intelligent Commerce, uses AI systems to turn live engagement data into insights for retailers. It is positioned within what the company calls the emerging “Agentic Commerce” segment and has become one of Zilch’s largest sources of revenue.

The second product, Zilch Pay, is scheduled for launch in the first half of 2026. It will enable customers to complete purchases through a one-click checkout using their Zilch accounts.

Capital utilisation

Zilch plans to allocate its latest funding to several areas. The company will increase above-the-line (ATL) marketing to reach more potential customers. It will invest in the development of new products and in improvements to its platform.

The funding will also support the company in exploring mergers and acquisitions that align with its business strategy.

Philip Belamant, CEO and co-founder of Zilch, says, “In just five years, we have rewired the relationship between brands and their customers, offering a different way to pay that brings mass benefits to both consumers and merchants. This funding reflects strong confidence in our team, strategy and execution, enabling us to continue scaling at pace.”

“Our newly launched products are already driving outsized growth, and with the support of a world-class group of debt and equity investors, we’re well positioned for the next phase of expansion.”

“In a market where many have found raising capital difficult, the network and strategic leadership of my co-founder, Sean O’Connor, have been instrumental in helping us achieve this outcome, and we are excited for the year ahead,” adds Belamant.

Hugh Courtney, CFO at Zilch, mentions, “Our ability to attract world-class investors at a time when many remain highly selective in their capital deployment is testament to the strength of the business we are building. Future-proof innovation, diversified revenue streams and a highly engaged customer base are all critical factors in our rapid growth, and we look forward to working with our shareholders to build on these successes, eliminate high-cost credit and rewire the economics of commerce.”

Brief about Zilch

Zilch provides a consumer payments platform designed to replace high-cost credit. The platform allows users to pay in flexible ways and receive rewards based on their retail activity.

It connects users with retailers and brands, enabling them to access benefits, discounts, and other incentives tied to their transactions.

Since its launch in 2020, Zilch has gained over 5.3 million registered users. The platform works with thousands of retailers and brands, including Amazon, eBay, Tesco, and Sports Direct, to support transactions and help brands reach customers efficiently. 

To date, Zilch has processed more than £5B in commerce. The company has received backing from firms including AWS, Deutsche Bank, and Visa.