Use the search box above to check company name UK availability for registration. Your Company Formations’ name check resource is directly integrated with the Companies House search beta service, the official registrar of businesses in the UK, hosting a database of over 4 million registered companies.

Check If Your Company Name Is Available and Appropriate (Avoid Sensitive Words and Expressions)

Your desired company name should be approved by companies house before you can use it. Fortunately, Companies House has naming guidelines that are easy to follow and not overly restrictive, ensuring a smooth name search process as you look for the perfect trading name.

Below find five primary companies' house name check rules for your information.

1. A name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company name.

A new company name must be unique and distinguishable. You are not allowed to register your company with a name that is identical or too similar to an existing registered name. Differences in punctuation, special characters, or commonly used words (such as "Company," "Services," or "UK") are not considered sufficient to make a name unique and different from one that is already registered.

For instance, let’s say you are in the energy sector. You cannot register a company by using the words Shell and adding a word such as “UK” to distinguish your company from the multinational energy company Shell.

However, if you decide to use a name connected to an existing company, our free company name checker will let you know that even though the name is also available, you’ll need to provide evidence that you have permission to use a name similar to theirs.

2. The name you want should not contain words that imply a connection to the UK government or local or specified public authority.

Unless you get explicit permission, your proposed name should not contain words that imply a connection with the devolved administration, national government or local authorities. Our companies house name checker will flag names like royal, council, crown, government, and HM (Her Majesty).

3. The name cannot include sensitive words or expressions without express permission.

These are words that could mislead the public about the company's nature, purpose, or legal status (e.g., "Chartered," "Accredited," "Architect," "Bank," etc.). Our free company name availability checker will flag your entry and advise that you prepare evidence to show that you have permission to use a sensitive word.

4. The name should not be offensive, inappropriate, or likely to cause harm or offence to any group or individual.

Our limited liability company name check uk tool will flag names that are offensive, inappropriate, derogatory, or likely to cause harm or offence to any group or individual. Companies House only seeks to approve enterprises promoting inclusivity and respect in the business community.

5. The name must not suggest criminal activity or be contrary to the public interest.

One of the critical guidelines set by the Companies House name search resource when selecting a name is that it should not suggest criminal activity, promote discrimination, prejudice or be contrary to the public interest.

By adhering to this guideline, businesses can create a positive company image and demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all stakeholders.

MoneySuperMarket and PureGym: Company’s Name Case Studies

Your registered trade name is the first representation of your business and leaves a lasting impression on potential customers. A good business name fosters a sense of trust and loyalty that ultimately contributes to your business's long-term success.

Therefore, craft and choose a company name that effectively communicates your business's essence and value proposition.

Before delving into the essential factors to consider while running potential names through the company search and selecting the perfect one, examine the following two case studies. By studying these examples, you’ll see how effective company naming can communicate value propositions and resonate with its target audience.

1. MoneySuperMarket (price comparison website for financial services)

MoneySuperMarket is a tool for comparing financial products such as insurance, loans, and credit cards. It combines three keywords - “money” and “supermarket.” The word "money" is universally recognised and easily understood by prospects. It immediately conveys that the company is involved in financial matters, which helps potential customers identify its offering without confusion.

The term "supermarket" evokes the image of a place that offers a wide variety of products under one roof. By combining "money" and "supermarket," the name suggests providing customers with a wide range of financial services and products.

Such a name effectively communicates the company’s value proposition. It resonates with prospects by leveraging familiar terms and concepts to create a clear, appealing, and memorable corporate image.

2. PureGym (Fitness Centers)

PureGym is a chain of fitness centres in the UK that offers affordable and accessible gym memberships. When people hear the keyword “gym”, they immediately associate it with a place for fitness training, which can be particularly beneficial in a competitive market where numerous fitness centres vie for attention.

Further, using "Pure" as a prefix adds a sense of simplicity, focus, and dedication to fitness. It implies that PureGym prioritises the essential aspects of fitness training, offering its members an uncluttered, straightforward experience. The name appeals to prospects looking for a no-nonsense approach to fitness without unnecessary distractions or complications. Combining "Pure" and "Gym" create a corporate image that suggests a commitment to delivering a streamlined, effective, and affordable fitness experience.

The simplicity of the company name PureGym also contributes to its memorability. A short and easy-to-remember name helps prospects recall the business when considering joining a gym or recommending one to others.

Companies House check name lessons from MoneySuperMarket and PureGym

Lessons we get from PureGym and MoneySupermarket in crafting memorable registered company names are as follows:

1. Use Keywords in your business name.

The simplest way to resonate with your target audience as you communicate the value of your business is by using keywords. If you use a keyword in your name, research your industry's most popular, relevant and competitive words and terminologies.

To get the best keywords for your business name, you only need to identify the language and words your prospects use when talking or searching about a business in your area. To get these words, you may review the questions and comments on social media platforms such as Facebook community groups, Reddit, Quora and Twitter.

However, remember, language and word choices are bound to evolve and change with time. Therefore, you can commit to reviewing your business strategy, which includes your company name, preferably after five years. Regular strategy reviews enable you to remain relevant and in tune with current trends, customer preferences, and industry developments.

2. Make it simple and unique.

A simple and unique limited company name check is essential in distinguishing your business from competitors. Choosing a name that is easy to remember and pronounce increases the chances of your target audience recalling your company when ready to make a purchase decision.

Keeping it simple also makes your business more recognisable, leading to better customer engagement. You also want your name to be unique to prevent confusion with other companies and avoid infringement lawsuits.

3. Consider combining two or three words.

Merging words related to your business can yield a descriptive and unique name that is memorable and indicative of your company's purpose. Successful companies like Microsoft, Pinterest, and Snapchat have used this strategy to create names by combining relevant words. For instance, Microsoft blends "microcomputer" and "software," Pinterest merges "pin" and "interest," and Snapchat combines "snap" and "chat."

4. Leverage a company name generator.

A business name generator may help streamline your brainstorming process. Using such tools, you can get a range of suggestions that can help you get started by searching for a suitable name.

Some of the best company name generators are —

• Namelix.com.

A highly sophisticated business name generator that uses advanced AI technology. The tool prompts users to input a keyword, select filters such as name style and degree of randomness, and provide basic information about their company.

We found that Namelix works best when users select the auto option for name style and medium randomness. To generate the most relevant names for your business, input two to three keywords pertinent to your industry and provide a brief, one-sentence description.

Overall, NameLix is a powerful and intuitive tool that can help entrepreneurs and startups quickly and easily generate unique and memorable names for their businesses.

• Shopify.

The Shopify Business Name Generator requires you to input a few desired keywords for your business name. It then supplements your keywords with other words to create a list of potential business names.

With Shopify, knowing the words you want to include in your company name is handy. Although it may not be as advanced as Namelix, the generator remains valuable for crafting keyword-based names that effectively represent your enterprise.

Consider using any of the above business name generators to help you discover your business's perfect name. Compile a list of at least five potential names and use our free company name search to verify their availability.

Before you choose your company name, it's essential to prioritise the list according to your preference, placing the one you find most appealing at the top. Check your company name using our name search tool to determine which name is available to register. With this, you can settle for one that accurately represents your company and resonates with your target audience.

Let it resonate with you!

After you’ve followed all the rules, settle for a name that resonates with you. After all, your brand reflects who you are; therefore, choose one that reflects your values and unique way of seeing the world.

Read: Companies House Search Service [Your Comprehensive Guide].