New business starter guide
This guide is designed to help you access key council business services, including how to report problems and get support with growing your business.
Information for food businesses
Every local authority keeps a register of all the food businesses in its area. If you're starting a new food business in Southwark you must register with us at least 28 days before opening for business. Registering your business is a simple process and doesn't cost anything.
You must inform us about any business vehicles used at permanent premises like shops or warehouses. You do not have to register each vehicle separately.
If you have one or more vehicles but no permanent premises, you must tell us where they're normally kept.
If you run a food business within Southwark, you must tell our food team about any premises you use for storing, selling, distributing or preparing food.
Examples of food premises include:
- restaurants
- hotels
- cafes
- shops
- supermarkets
- staff canteens
- kitchens in offices
- warehouses
- guest houses
- home caterers
- childminders
- delivery vehicles
- buffet cars on trains
- markets and hot dog stalls
- ice cream vans
How to register your food business
Register your food business online
Alcohol and hot food after 11pm
If you wish to sell alcohol or hot food after 11pm you will need to apply for a license under the Licensing Act 2003.
Contact the food safety team
Telephone: 020 7525 2000
Email: food@southwark.gov.uk