TSI and minister launch free online resource for trading standards laws

The Trading Standards Institute has launched a free online resource aimed at helping business owners find and understand trading standards laws and consumer protection regulations.

The site, Business Companion, is designed to help business owners query laws specific to their industry. They can also sign up for legislative alerts so they are notified by email when a change in the law takes place.

The site, which is backed by the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills, is also country-specific.

The TSI said: “Business owners frequently experience confusion when determining which of the thousands of existing laws apply to them. Unfortunately, the law doesn't define businesses by their trade but how they sell, what they sell and where they sell. Do they sell products or services? Do they sell by distance or face-to-face?

“These questions serve as a guidepost for Business Companion site navigation. By answering these simple questions, business owners are directed to guidance that generally affects their business.”
 
Jo Swinson, Consumer Affairs Minister, added: "We know that businesses can find navigating their way around trading standards law a daunting prospect. It is important that there is help available to support them in understanding the law and keeping up to date with any changes.
 
“Business Companion will provide an invaluable free and easy to use resource to help companies remain compliant. That’s not only good for business but reassuring for consumers too.”