If a person or firm trades under any name which is different from its full legal name, then the full legal name must appear as well.
A company may be incorporated under any name in the UK unless it is already on the register, its use would constitute a criminal offence or be offensive, or give the impression that the company is connected with central or local government, or it contains a controlled word or expression, for which permission may be required.
It is also now possible for third parties to object to the registration of a company name for “opportunistic registration” if the company’s name is the same as a name associated with the party objecting in which they have goodwill, or is so similar that its use in the United Kingdom would likely to mislead by suggesting a connection between the company and the party objecting.
The use of controlled words or expressions as business names is also regulated, as for example:
Note: This is not a complete list, and you should ensure that current information is obtained – see also the Companies House guidance here.
The use of a company name or business name can however constitute trade mark infringement or passing off – see our factsheet Trade Mark & Marketing Clearance.
