Getting advice

Guidelines and regulations can change often and we thought it might be useful to give you an update on some of the changes we’re aware of that may affect your business.

Trade Marks Regulations 2018 (GB) | Important changes were made in relation to the Trade Marks Regulations 2018, which came into force on 14 January 2019. The changes brought about by this legislation include:

• amendments to the application procedure
• amendments to the notification for renewal period
• amendments to the ICO’s test for deciding whether to agree to restore a lapsed trade mark.

New CMA guidelines for influencers in the UK | On 23 January 2019, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) released a guide for social media endorsements which aims to encourage influencers to be more transparent with their followers.

The CMA’s new guide is targeted at influencers, marketing teams and brands. Where an influencer has been paid (can be hotel stay, trip, product – it does not have to be money) it must be made clear on the social medial post. Both brands and influencers could be the subject of enforcement action if they do not take steps to comply with the law. Read more

This list is not extensive and we would advise that you are fully up to speed on all policies and regulations related to your businesses. You can find out whether your business is regulated, whether you need a licence to operate and who you should apply to via the Scottish Government.

And finally, be sure to take a look at our 'More sources of advice' section for a variety of organisations that can help you, in particular Business Gateway who offer a range of professional resources, support and tools.