Types of business

You have satisfied your business idea is viable. The next step is to decide what form your business should take. We explore the options.

Types of business - overview

There are more than 5.6 million business in the UK. Find how to guides for more than 180 different types of business if you are thinking of joining the small business ranks.

Employee preparing a car for a paint job in a car bodyshop
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How to start up a car bodyshop

Ever thought of running your own car bodyshop? Our easy-to-follow guide will help you to start up and run your dream business.

Bearded man stood with rows of coaches in background
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How to start up a coach firm

Private coach firms may offer local bus services to fare-paying passengers, possibly on routes subsidised by the local authority, or they may take on private hire work.

Multiple pieces of jewellery on top of gold coins
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How to start up a pawnbroking business

The cost-of-living crisis has led to a boom in demand for money service businesses. Read our practical guide to starting up and running your own pawnbroking business.

Pharmacist holding green medicine packet in pharmacy shop
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How to start up a pharmacy

A practical guide to starting and running your own pharmacy or buying an existing pharmacy, including how to identify your target market and what products and services to offer.

Man in waistcoat playing pool in dark room with peoples and tables in background
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How to start up a pool hall

Pool, snooker and billiards remain popular - particularly with younger men. Read our practical guide to starting and running your own pool hall business.

Red post office sign sticking out of beige wall
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How to start up a post office

The number of Post Offices has fallen in recent years. The Post Office has also been in the spotlight thanks to the Horizon scandal. That said, they are still a popular lifestyle.

Pint of beer on bar side underneath taps
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How to start up a pub

You'll find all you need to start up and run your own pub in our practical guide.

Man in brown sweater holding record with woman in background looking for records
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How to start up a record shop

There's no doubt that streaming services and online stores have thrown up many challenges for record shops, but a well-run business can still succeed.

Two men unloading cardboard boxes from the back of a lorry
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How to start up a removals business

If you want to offer removals services you'll need to decide who your customers will be - domestic households or commercial organisations.

Man holding black shoe in shoe shop with multiple shoes in background
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How to start up a shoe shop

Ever wondered how to start your own shoe shop? Follow this guide on how to start up your own shoe shop business up and running.

Woman holding roller blade and purple helmet in sports shop
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How to start up a sports shop

Sports goods retailing is very competitive and independent outlets need to make sure they have something special to offer customers - like a repair or hire service.

Man showing customer multiple different surfboards in surf shop
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How to start up a surf shop

Most surf shops are located in coastal areas and are often run by people with a keen interest in surfing.

Green tack shop sign hanging down from wooden pillar
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How to start up a tack shop

To run a tack shop ideally you'll be knowledgeable about equestrian matters and located in an area with lots of horses and riders.

Black taxi with 'TAXI' sign lit up during night-time
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How to start up a taxi firm

All taxis and taxi drivers must be licensed. Find out how to set up a taxi firm, what competition you might face, what other taxi services you can offer and how to get a licence for you and your taxi.

Multiple different electrical tools with white background
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How to start up a tool hire business

Start and run your own tool hire business with our essential guide. Covering all the key considerations for tool hire businesses, get started today.

Little girl in pink top playing with different toys in toy shop
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How to start up a toy shop

Although the toy market is very competitive there's still room for well-run independents offering great service.

A social enterprise works with young people
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Q&A: Social enterprises

Unlike even the most ethical of other start-ups, social enterprises have environmental or social values at the very core of everything they do.