Access free, impartial legal guidance from Business Companion — run by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) and National Trading Standards (NTS).
Whether you’re starting out, need quick answers, or want in-depth details, Business Companion has you covered.
Stay informed with articles written by experts, your source for top tips, compliance articles, and inspiring stories from other business owners. Want to share your expertise?
Contribute with an article and reach a wide audience across 14 Local Authorities and our partner network, including the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
Need support? Find essential contacts to help your business comply with regulations and thrive. Connect with organisations like the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), Food Standards Agency (FSA), Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), and many more.
Find your local Trading Standards team and/or their business pages by using our interactive map. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Don’t worry, you can also use the national government’s web tool for finding your local council with a postcode. This web tool also provides access to Royal Mail’s postcode finder if you don’t know the full address.
Using the national government’s web tool will take you to your local authority’s general home page. You will then need to search their website for your local Trading Standards service.
Take advantage of our training programmes, including age-restricted sales e-learning for shop owners, managers and staff. Stay ahead of the curve by joining our workshops and letting us know what other training would benefit your business.
If you’re a business owner, click the ‘Businesses’ box below to access free resources and guidance to help you meet your legal responsibilities linked to our current campaign.
Find quick answers to common questions, including how trading standards can support your business, what a Primary Authority relationship entails and the many ways CEnTSA can help you grow.
Illegitimate businesses undermine fair competition and the economy. By reporting suspicious businesses, you help protect consumers, support honest traders and contribute to a thriving business environment.
