Hi, I am setting up an on line business similar to Ann Summers and I was wondering do I need a license to do so? I tried to google it but everything came up for UK and I'm not sure where else to go regarding it. Thank you.
Not being a proprietor of an online store or a sex shop, I don't know much about the regulations affecting either.
A physical store may need planning permission, although its not clear as to how this would differ from an ordinary shop apart from later opening/trading hours unless a specific license was required.
An online store may not need planning permission per se, but may need a license.
The building used storage of the goods may need permission if based in the state.
You may also need a license to import and transport the goods into and within Ireland.
Thank you very much for that information I will look into it all and see what I can find. With regard to opening a shop you do need a liscense and you are not allowed show 'offensive' material in the window.
I will let you know what I find out.
Thanks again,
Sabrina.
No, you don't need a license for an online store. However, you need to be sure that the products you sell comply with the relevant laws. This shouldn't be too difficult if you're just selling lingerie and stuff, but might get tricky if you sell lotions, creams or XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. Some of those can be classed as medicines and you could get in trouble sending them via the post.
If you're getting stock from the UK, don't presume whats legal there is legal here.
Ok thank you for your help.
It will be a drop-shipping company so I won't be receiving the goods just purchasing them on behalf of the customer and the wholesalers will deliver to them.
I should probably really get some legal advice before I go ahead.