Need some general help with our Butchers company

[addleton]

We are a small Market Butchers company that sells meat from a refrigerated lorry. Our company has an established name in the area that customers recognize and an active Facebook page with a great following.

Our company owner has decided he is done with the company and has left one butcher with the lorry to sell the meat but things need to change so I have come here for some general advice.

1. If we register as a new business, can we still trade under our old name? This would help keep our customers that know the name.

2. Do we need a business bank account?

3. Would the butcher register as a sole trader? Or would he need to register as a limited company?

4. Are there any definitive steps for setting up a new business? Registering a name, taking out liability insurance, etc?

Any help is much appreciated.

 

[TODonnell]

...
Our company owner has decided he is done with the company ...

What does this mean?

 

[Scalloway]

1. You can ask the owner if they will let you use the existing name

2. You are far better to have a business bank account. Banks are not keen on personal accounts bring used for business transactions. Also it keeps things separate

3. It is simpler to set up as a sole trader but a limited company gives the owner limited liability if things don't work out.

4. Some advice here
https://www.gov.uk/set-up-business-uk/overview
http://startups.co.uk/10-steps-to-starting-a-business/
http://beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/How-to-set-up-a-butchers-shop.pdf

 

[addleton]

What does this mean?

He has left and is looking for a job as he owes money out everywhere. It's hard to explain as the company has never been run properly but now I want to set things up so they do run properly. I just need pointing in the right direction.

 

[ethical PR]

Make sure you don't take over his business or you might find yourself liable for it's debts if he walks away.

 

[Nochexman]

From what you describe, you should consider approaching your Local Chamber of Commerce for some broad business advice by the sound of it. This won't cost you anything, but will allow to sound out some of the issues you are likely to come up against. Best of luck.

 

[billmccallum1957]

If the business name is the same as your profile details, I would stay as far away from the name as possible. Reputations can change quickly.

 

[David Griffiths]

I think this one has changed already!

 

[billmccallum1957]

I think this one has changed already!

Good decision.