Most businesses have certain types of intellectual property (IP) which they need to protect. Sometimes this IP will comprise a core part of their products or services; more commonly IP will be ancillary but nevertheless important to the business, as in the case of branding. Let’s take a look at the different types of IP…

Many companies will need to obtain a specific business licence before they can start trading. In this blog, we will explain the purpose of a business licence, consider the types of business which may require one, and provide some examples. What is a business licence? A business licence is an official permit that must be…

According to the mental health charity Mind, one in every four people experiences some type of mental health problem each year, with anxiety and depression being the most commonly reported conditions. Although it has been established that work is generally beneficial for mental health and well-being, stress in the workplace can lead to problems. Research…

In this blog, we will take a look at how a business credit score works, what is considered to be a good score, how to improve a bad one, and how you can find your business’s credit score. What is a business credit score? A business credit score is a numerical grade based on an…

The end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December 2020 means that UK businesses are now obliged to comply with the new rules. Although the majority of UK regulations have remained the same as before Brexit, companies should be aware of certain changes. We will consider some of the rule changes and what they…

Many jobs for contractors require security clearance. In this blog we will consider the different types of security clearance and how a UK contractor can obtain them. What is a contractor? A contractor is essentially someone who performs work for a business or organisation on a contractual basis. Contractors often work on a self-employed basis,…

If you’re wondering whether it’s possible for a sole trader to have employees, the answer is yes, but it is not commonplace. In this post, we will discuss this question, in addition to related matters such as employment law, contractors, freelancers, and limited companies. Are sole traders allowed to be employers? Yes, sole traders can…

In certain circumstances, larger companies and those with a progressive outlook will issue shares to employees as part of a benefits package. Setting up employee share schemes can be mutually beneficial to both companies and employees in terms of tax savings opportunities, attracting and retaining the very best talent, and creating a happy and productive…

Each year thousands of businesses are asked to complete business surveys for the Office for National Statistics. Similar to jury service, being selected to take part in a survey is relatively random and complying with the request is a legal requirement. So what is the ONS and what is the purpose of their business surveys?…

Setting up an online business in the UK is an increasingly popular option for both start-ups and established ‘bricks-and-mortar’ retailers. With more consumers than ever before now choosing to shop online, the UK has the largest e-commerce market in Europe and the third largest in the world. The Coronavirus crisis has further accelerated the shift…

This blog is part of our ongoing series: If you’re starting a new business – here’s how NOT to fail. After reading about why your company needs a business landline telephone number (and why you should never be the one who answers it), be sure to check out the rest of our series, in which…

If you’re a current business owner or you are interested in starting a new venture, chances are you want to make sure your business does not fail. Forming a company, creating new products or services, bringing them to market, and sharing your skills with the world is an incredible experience. But unfortunately, finding business success…