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Home > Business Basics > Types of Limited Company

Different types of Limited Company
There's a few different types of Limited Company.  Here's a look at the one's your most likely to come across.

Private Limited Company (Ltd)

  • The usual company setup for UK small businesses
  • Can have any number of shareholders
  • Cannot offer shares to the general public
  • Doesn't need a company secretary

Public Limited Company (PLC)

  • Must have allotted shares to the value of at least £50,000
  • Can offer shares to the general public
  • Must have at least two shareholders and two directors
  • Must have a qualified company secretary

Community Interest Company (CIC)

  • Can be a Private Limited Company or a Public Limited Company
  • Set up for community benefit rather than private advantage
  • Must pass a "community interest test" and "asset lock"
  • More information at www.cicregulator.gov.uk
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