Allica Bank vs Metro Bank: business accounts compared

Important: This guide provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Financial products, rates and eligibility rules can change, so check the provider’s current terms before applying. You can check a firm’s details on the FCA Register.

FSCS protects eligible deposits up to £120,000 per person, per authorised institution.

Quick answer

Both reward keeping a balance. Allica charges £25 a month if your average balance drops below £10,000; Metro charges £8 plus 30p per transaction in any month your daily balance dips below £6,000.

Allica is for businesses trading 12+ months with £50,000 to deposit and pays savings pot interest and card cashback. Metro takes start-ups and offers walk-in stores and local business managers.

Allica vs Metro Bank compared

FeatureAllica BankMetro Bank
Monthly fee£0 if average balance £10,000+, else £25£0 if daily balance £6,000+, else £8
TransactionsUp to 150 free Faster Payments a month30 free then 30p (or 30p each under £6,000)
RewardsSavings pot up to 4.08% AER; up to 1.5% card cashbackNone stated
Eligibility12+ months trading; £50,000+ deposit or loanTurnover up to £2m; start-ups accepted
SupportNamed relationship managerLocal business managers in stores
Offers0.5% savings boost for 6 months after a CASS switch31 months fee-free for switchers; 12 months for new-to-bank

Figures as of 4 October 2026, taken from the provider’s own website. Rates and fees can change.

Who each suits

  • Allica: established, cash-rich businesses
  • Metro: start-ups and businesses wanting in-person help

Who should skip it

These are general points to weigh up, not advice. You may want to look elsewhere if:

  • Your balance swings a lot — both have balance-linked fees

Full explanation

Estimate your typical monthly balance with our business cashflow calculator.

The catch

Metro’s test is daily; Allica’s is a monthly average.

Check each bank’s current terms.

These go straight to each provider’s own website. They aren’t referral links and we don’t earn from them.

FAQs

Which suits a start-up?

Metro Bank — Allica requires 12 months of trading.

Which pays interest?

Allica, through its linked savings pot.

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Written by Steven — Editor, The Finance Lowdown

Fact checked by Angela — Editorial Reviewer

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