A community interest company (CIC) is a special type of limited company designed to use its profits and assets for the benefit of a community rather than private shareholders. CICs must pass a “community interest test” and are regulated by the CIC Regulator. They can trade, earn profits, and pay staff, but face restrictions on profit distribution.
A charity is a not-for-profit organisation that exists to serve a social, environmental, or humanitarian cause rather than to generate profit for owners or shareholders. Charities raise funds through donations, grants, and trading activities, then reinvest all surplus income back into their mission.
A public limited company (PLC) is an incorporated business that sells shares on a stock exchange to the general public. It must have a minimum share capital of £50,000, at least two directors, and a qualified company secretary. PLCs can raise large amounts of capital but face strict regulation, public scrutiny, and the risk of hostile takeovers.
A private limited company (Ltd) is a business owned by shareholders whose liability is limited to the amount they invested. Shares cannot be sold to the general public. This structure protects personal assets, gives the business a separate legal identity, and is the most popular form of incorporation in the UK.
A limited liability partnership (LLP) is a legal business structure where partners enjoy the tax flexibility of a traditional partnership while having their personal assets protected from business debts. It must be registered with Companies House and is popular among professional service firms like law practices and accountancy firms.
A partnership is a business owned and run by two or more people who share responsibility, profits, and losses. Partners typically have unlimited liability, meaning their personal assets are at risk if the business cannot pay its debts. Partnerships are common in professions like law, accountancy, and medicine, and they appear frequently across GCSE and A-Level Business Studies specifications.
A sole trader is a business owned and run by one person. The owner keeps all profits but faces unlimited liability, meaning personal assets are at risk if the business cannot pay its debts. It is the simplest and most common business structure in the UK, requiring no formal registration with Companies House.
