Business Names

Companies Act 2006: Business Names

This Act applies to businesses where the trading name is not the same as that of the owner. For example:

• Leo Smith trading as Leo's Bakery
• S Jones and F Bloggs trading as Globe Antiques
• ABC Foods Ltd trading as ABC Foods
  
  

Any person dealing with the above businesses would be unaware, from the trading name, who owned the business. The Act therefore requires the ownership details to be made known to the public. The Act applies equally to sole traders, partnerships and corporate bodies.

Information that Must be Disclosed

• The name(s) of the owner(s), whether that be: 
  • an individual, or
  • the name of each partner, or
  • the corporate name (ie, Ltd, PLC)

• In relation to each name, an address at which documents could be served. That is an address where letters will reach the owner.
  
  

Where the Information Must be Disclosed

• On a notice placed in a prominent position on the business premises, where customers and suppliers have access

• On business stationery, such as:

  • business letters
  • written orders for the supply of goods and services
  • invoices and receipts (including till receipts)
• On your web site

It is a criminal offence to fail to comply with the Act.

Further advice?

If you require further information, clarification or advice on any of the above, contact:

Trading Standards Service
222 Upper Street
N1 1XR
Tel: 020 7527 3198
Email: trading.standards@islington.gov.uk

In offering the above advice, this authority wishes to make it clear that only the courts can interpret the law.