Dudley Trading Standards has a responsibility to enforce a wide range of consumer legislation concerning fair trading, quality, quantity and safety. Working with our partners our aim is to protect the consumer, to encourage fair trading, and to provide advice and support to local businesses.
There are also many laws to protect customers from being treated unfairly. If you breach them, the penalties can be high and can even result in you losing your business. The Trading Standards Institute (TSI), which enforces many of these regulations, can help you stay within the law.
Many existing consumer laws - including most of the Trade Descriptions Act - have been replaced by the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 since 26 May 2008. The new regulations ban traders in all sectors from engaging in unfair commercial (mainly marketing and selling) practices against consumers. The regulations also set out how commercial practices can be unfair by being misleading (by action or omission) or aggressive, and list 31 specific practices which are banned. The Business Protection from Misleading Marketing Regulations 2008 has replaced the Trade Descriptions Act insofar as that Act protects businesses.
Business and the Recession
During these difficult economic times, many individuals and businesses are becoming increasingly concerned about how they will cope. We hope there is support and advice for you here on our Dudley Means Business. For further advice on anything to do with regulation whenever it's needed visit the ERWIN website
Business Link
Business Link provides impartial impartial and expert information, support and advice needed to help businesses develop and make them more successful. We can help you to improve your business performance, making it easier to move your business forward, no matter what stage your business is at.
They can help you:
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Access business information and research
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Get expert advice on how to improve your business performance
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Find relevant solutions through access to quality assured suppliers
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Improve the skills of you and your people
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Access specialist manufacturing advice
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Start a dynamic new business
Business Rates
You can find out about business rates together with request a rate relief application form, change the way you pay your business rates, tell us your new business address and view your Business Rates balance online.
Licences, Registrations and Permits
As a business you may require a licence, permit, notification or registration for certain activities. Our Licences, Registrations and Permits webpage has help and advice for applicants for licences in the borough, including alcohol and entertainment licences under the Licensing Act 2003 and to help guide you through the licensing requirements of your business.
Whether you own a pub or food outlet, are a street trader, own an exotic animal or drive a private hire vehicle, you may need a licence or form of consent from the Council. Please refer to our Directory of Licences to see what applies.
Contact Us
If your business is based in the borough and you need advice on fair trading matters, please contact us.
