European manufacturing cannot compete with the cheap labour costs in many countries such as China, Turkey, Vietnam and so on. Many products are now made in those countries and more will be in the future. However many product designs are created in Europe and the United Kingdom has a very good track record of design [...]

Posted: November 1st, 2007 under Intellectual Property.
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There are two ways in which a buyer can acquire a target business. It can either buy the shares of the company which owns the business and assets (share purchase) or it can buy the business and assets directly from the company that owns them (business purchase).
In a share purchase, all of the company’s assets, liabilities, [...]

Posted: November 1st, 2007 under Corporate Finance.
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A share buyback is a convenient way for a company to return cash to shareholders. Under a share buyback the company acquires shares in itself from existing shareholders. The shares are then (generally) cancelled and the issued share capital of the company is reduced accordingly.
This article describes the process to be followed for private companies wishing to [...]

Posted: November 1st, 2007 under Corporate Finance.
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It is unlawful for an English company whose shares are being, or have been, acquired (or for any of that company’s subsidiaries) to give “financial assistance” for the purpose of that acquisition unless certain exceptions apply. The prohibition is extended to cover any financial assistance given to reduce or discharge any liability incurred by the [...]

Posted: November 1st, 2007 under Corporate Finance.
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When a business is sold the buyer and seller both have obligations under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006. The Regulations are designed to safeguard the employment rights of employees involved in the transfer.
When do the Regulations Apply?
The Regulations apply when a business or undertaking, or a part of one, is transferred [...]

Posted: November 1st, 2007 under Corporate Finance, Employment/HR.
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