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Starting a public limited company
How to set up a public limited company and decide if it is the right structure for your type of business.
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
Starting a private company
How to decide whether a private limited company or a private unlimited company is the right structure for your startup.
Franchise costs and returns
Be aware of initial and ongoing costs of a franchise and potential financial performance.
Business partnerships
What you need to consider before starting your new business as a partnership, and the different types of partnership.
Becoming a sole trader
An overview of the things you need to consider before starting in business on your own and some of the benefits.
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.
Do you have the qualities to be a young entrepreneur?
Find out if you have the skills and experience to become a young entrepreneur
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.
The franchise business model
A basic overview of how to start your new business by buying a franchise and what to know before signing an agreement.
UK establishments of overseas companies
The steps for an overseas company to take in order to set up an establishment of their business in the United Kingdom.
Setting up specific types of limited company
Gudiance on how you can set up a Community Interest Company (CIC) or a right-to-manage (RTM) company.
UK economic interest groupings
Guidance on UK economic interest groupings (UKEIG) and European economic interest groupings (EEIG) business entities.
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.
Step-by-step guide to starting a business
What to do when starting a business, including advice on business plans, financial and legal requirements
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