Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has officially launched 'Businessline', a new dedicated telephone helpline from the Trading Standards Service aimed at assisting local firms with complex regulations. The service is designed to provide free, dependable advice to help businesses navigate their legal responsibilities and rights under consumer protection law.

The helpline offers support across a broad spectrum of commercial issues. This includes guidance on the accurate description of goods and services, pricing transparency, rules for online selling, and compliance with weights and measures requirements. It also clarifies the specific obligations businesses have when selling directly to consumers.

Commenting on the launch, Minister Archibald said: "Businessline is a valuable new resource for local businesses, providing direct access to expert trading standards advice to help them navigate complex regulations.

"By using the service, businesses can reduce the risk of costly mistakes, strengthen compliance and build consumer confidence. "Many businesses do not have in house legal or compliance support. Businessline offers practical, accessible guidance to help them get things right."

Richard Knipe of the Trading Standards Service emphasized that the goal of the new helpline is to help businesses establish correct procedures from the start. He explained: "The overwhelming majority of businesses want to be fully compliant with trading standards rules. This dedicated helpline will help them get the support they need to ensure they meet those requirements.

"Businesses that understand regulation are better placed to succeed. They reduce the risks associated with non compliance, deliver better services for customers, and are more likely to achieve long term sustainability, customer satisfaction and repeat business. This is good for businesses and good for consumers."

Local firms can access professional trading standards advice by calling Businessline on 0300 077 0323. The helpline is open Monday to Thursday from 9.00am to 5.00pm, and on Fridays from 9.00am to 4.00pm. Inquiries can also be submitted via email to tssbusinessline@economy-ni.gov.uk.