Free, impartial legal guidance for businesses

Business Companion provides information for businesses and individuals that need to know about trading standards and consumer protection legislation

The site delivers guidance by default for England, but if you are trading in Scotland or Wales, you should choose your location using the drop-down list at the top of the page. This is because some laws are different, or are differently enforced, in those countries

The guidance is divided up into 15 broad Quick Guides and each one contains a number of more detailed In-depth Guides.

There may be rules you are not aware of, so make sure you explore the site thoroughly.

If you don't know where to begin, or you're a new business, click Get Started above.

Latest news

Standardized packaging of tobacco – transition period to end

The transition period where old-style tobacco packaging can still be sold is due to end on 20 May. As well as the standardized-packaging requirements this means that a packet of cigarettes must now contain 20 or more cigarettes and a packet of hand-rolling tobacco must contain at least 30 grams. More >

Home improvements – your top five questions answered

Business Companion sees the bigger picture, not just from a business perspective but from a consumer's point of view too. That way, you get not just legal, but practical answers to your questions. If you run a home improvements business - from building work, kitchen and bathroom fitting to landscaping and anything in between - this Q&A is for you. More >