Setting up a business in the UK is a great opportunity. It offers variety for anyone regardless of the niche. Whether it is for the local community or for an international audience, it is bound to be profitable. One of the first things to consider is what to call your company. The name speaks volumes of who you are as a brand. It can have an impact on whether customers connect with a brand or not.
So taking some time to pick a name is important. Every business should be different. When you come up with one, make sure to check on Companies House to ensure it is unique. Here is a guide that will help you with a Company House name check according to The Hoxton Mix. This will help you and allow you to avoid any legal issues or you from being registered.
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Visit Companies House
Anyone that wants to start a business in the UK needs to register with Companies House. This organisation has a record of all businesses in the UK. The information it retains includes:
- Type of business
- Stakeholders
- Directors
- Address
It is open to the public and anyone can search for a company on their website. The site is always updated so visitors get the latest information. As a result, new businesses are encouraged to always give accurate information to avoid misleading the public.
The name is what the public uses to identify a company. It is also used for legal issues including tax. That is what other businesses will use when corresponding with a company. So checking Company House name in the UK is necessary.
Check availability
Making sure that your name is unique is important not only for customers but for registration. Once you come up with one check using the Companies House checker tool whether other companies are already using the same name.
Simply put the word in mind and get results instantly. If someone is already using it you have to keep searching for what to call your business. When the name is unique, you can proceed with your application.
Look at guidelines
As you look up a Company House name, there are certain things to keep in mind. These prevent you from facing difficulties with registration.
Different names
Having similar names can create confusion when people search for a company. That is why the Companies House maintains that the names should be different. However, there are occasions when you can use an already existing name. These include:
If the business will be part of an already existing brand
If it gets permission to use the same name
It is important to register a name with trademarks. The number of trademark infringements has increased over the past few years with many resulting in fines. So check this database as well to make sure you are safe.
Word restrictions
Something that may hinder your application is using words that are sensitive or offensive. There are restrictions on the words you can use when naming a company. Some words are completely restricted. This ensures that people are not misled by a business. Words that are restricted include:
UK
- British
- Gouvernement
- Police
- Banking
Others may be approved if you provide the appropriate legal documentation. This shows that the government has no objections to using the particular word. Anything that is considered to be offensive is also prohibited.
Limited vs unlimited
Companies that have shareholders also need to add “Limited’ to the selected name. The same applies to those limited by guarantees. This is important because it shows the kind of establishment a business is using. The Companies House will automatically add it when you send an application. You are free to choose the format. This should be clearly indicated when applying for a permit.
How to pick a business name
With all the regulations around opening a business, you can see just how important it is to come up with a name. Not only do you want it to resonate with your customers but to meet the requirements for registration. Here are some things to facilitate naming a company.
Make it standout
The name should always be unique. Apart from it being a legal requirement it also allows your business to stand out from others. So you have to be creative to come up with something that is different and not similar to other existing brands.
Let it speak for your brand
While picking what your company will be, think of the brand. This is what the most valuable brands in the world have done. The name should always remain in line with what your business represents. That gives people an idea of what you do at a glance. So it should offer some level of descriptive information on what a business does.
It should be memorable
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid is coming up with something that is unique but hard to pronounce. Anything that people fail to pronounce they immediately forget. So pick something that is easy and will leave a lasting impression on people. Another way is by ensuring to include it in marketing campaigns so that more people are aware.
Follow legal requirements
The name should be within the local guidelines. This helps you avoid any trademark infringement policies. Also you will be operating within the legal requirements which makes your brand safe to the public.
Final thoughts
As you plan to open a business, consider what to call it. The name makes a huge difference especially when starting out. Something exciting, new, and unique picks curiosity is customers. It helps you create a connection with the public. Make sure that the name also speaks for what your business does.
Legal requirements expect each company to have a different name. Any similarities may keep you from opening a business. Remember to always be creative and to research. With a quick Company House name check, you will be one step closer to launching your business. Staying in line with regulations will ensure that you get the green flag to start operating in the UK.
