Shortly after establishing the Bank, Lubbock entered into business as a merchant with Frederick Commerell in 1776. The latter semi retired in 1787, choosing to stay on as a sleeping partner until 1796. John Lubbock then started up a second business with his nephew, John William Lubbock, Richard Tucker and Oliver Colt. The firm was called Lubbock, Colt and Co. It was involved in all sorts of ventures from importation of wines to overseas property acquisition. John Lubbock retired from this firm in 1812, handing over control to his nephew.