Trading name

[Chuddy23]

Hi.

I've worked for my dad for the past 20 years earning a modest wage. For years I've wanted to expand, however my dad being content and old fashioned, wouldn't allow it to happen.

After lengthy discussions he has finally allowed me to spread out my wings, but as self employed myself as he doesn't want to be directly involved. He's said he will help with start up, with passing on clients etc, however I want to keep the name of the business in some way! As that is what has carried the business for many years, being well known, which will help a huge amount to begin with.

The original business was just him, and me as an employee, so basically a sole trader.

Is it possible for both of us to trade under the same name or a slight variation of it? With a different contact number. I see such as taxi drivers etc do it all the time. He said he'd be fine with it but I don't know if it would cause complications?

I suggested a partnership but he doesn't want to expand or have anything to do with my side of what I hope to acheive

 

[SH247]

If you are going to be self employed you can trade under the same name - if you are going to register as a limited company you can trade under a variation of the name.

There are hundreds of self employed people trading under the same names across the country

 

[Mr D]

Your father is also avoiding the risks you could bring him in business. The business and you are the same as regards debt. You being self employed means he's not risking losing his business. And any risks he takes is not going to destroy your business.

Have a look into a minor variation of the name people know. Point out to potential customers your experience 20 years working for him - that should count in your favour where his reputation is known.

Perhaps on some things the pair of you could collaborate.

 

[Chuddy23]

So as far as same names go, it could all be considered ok? The 2 of us would be operating in the same local to a degree but he doesn't mind and being the fact he would be passing a lot of work my way, it would save people thinking I was just a random sub contractor. The name would be the same (if thay is considered legal and ok) but obviously we would have different numbers. I suppose it's only the same as having different contact numbers in a larger firm for different desks/people?

Thanks guys

 

[SH247]

It is legally allowed if you are a sole trader - it may cause some confusion amongst customers though so might be worth using a variation as suggested to avoid confusion and make it clear you are a separate entity.

 

[TotalWebSolutions]

I'd agree with going with a variation of the name - maybe adding something to the end that distinguishes the difference between the two companies. Perhaps have the same logo (TM permitting) but with a variation on the colour so that it is obvious the two businesses are connected/associated in some way for the client trust element (where your Father will be passing clients on to you).

 

[P19Johnson]

You can trade under the same name i believe but a variation may be better just to avoid confusion for customers.