What types of business can I start?

In the UK there are several types of business structure you can choose from to operate your business.

  • Sole Trader
  • Limited Liability Partnership
  • Limited Partnership
  • Limited Company
  • Public Limited Company
  • Guarantee Company

The most popular formal business format in the UK is the limited company. This is a company limited by shares. It is owned by at least one shareholder and managed by at least one director. It is common for the shareholder and director to be the same person.

For more information on the different types of business available please visit this page.

Using our website you can register a limited by shares company, a limited liability partnership or a not for profit limited by guarantee company.

If you want to register a limited partnership you will need to order this by phone and email as electronic incorporation is currently not available.