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Retail
Guidance on getting started in retail, improving your retail business, running a retail premises, retail and the environment, business finances and the law, and employing people in retail
Franchise costs and returns
Be aware of initial and ongoing costs of a franchise and potential financial performance.
7 key advantages of R&D for small business
Discover different ways to leverage research and development to improve products and services, and boost your business.
Advantages of innovation
Benefits of innovation in business can include efficiencies, growth and increased competitive advantage, as well as enhanced reputation
Strategy for research and development
How research and development should fit into your overall business plan
How to buy a franchise
Check these dos and don'ts before buying a franchise.
Assess a franchise opportunity
What to find out when considering buying a franchise - including costs, competition, current success and support.
Is it realistic to sell my business?
Key points you need to consider to make sure your business is financially healthy and attractive to buyers.
Types of retail business
The various types of retail business, including convenience store, speciality store, supermarket, discount store, department store, warehouse, direct retailer and online store
Estimate your rate bill
Get an indication of how much your business rates bill could be for 2024-25.
Internal research and development
How to carry out internal research and development and leverage the benefits of keeping research in-house
External research and development
How to outsource your research and development and the benefits of commissioning it externally
Research and development - investment and risks
How to weigh up the possible risks of research and development against the potential benefits
What is research, design and development?
Stay ahead of competitors by carrying out quality research, design and development in your business
Managing the design process
Understand the steps you should take when trying to turn an idea into a product
Eliminating ideas that are not viable
Understanding when a product will not be viable is important to prevent wasting time and money
Exploring your ideas
How to innovate and develop your business ideas
Franchise agreements for a franchisee
Your franchise agreement should cover franchise length, territory, amount of fees, management service fees and royalties, and restrictions.
When to sell your business
The importance of planning ahead and what to consider to help you sell your business at the best price.
Ten top tips for starting a retail business
Ten top tips to starting a retail business successfully and staying afloat in the early days of trading