Buying or selling a business with a gangmaster’s licence
Published 17 June 2026
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1. If you’re buying a sole trader’s business
A sole trader’s licence cannot be sold or transferred.
You:
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must apply for your own licence
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cannot use the seller’s licence
If a sole trader sets up a limited company, they must apply for a licence for that company.
2. If you’re buying a limited company or partnership
You may need a new licence depending on how the business is sold.
2.1 Asset sale
You must apply for a new licence.
The existing licence stays with the original company or partnership. It does not transfer with the assets.
If the business is wound down, you must tell the Fair Work Agency (FWA) within 20 working days.
2.2 Share sale
You do not need a new licence.
If you buy a company or partnership through a share purchase, the licence stays with the business.
You must follow licensing standard 1.4 and tell FWA about changes, such as:
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trading name
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contact details
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people named on the licence
We may carry out checks after a share sale.
For example, if you add new directors, we may check their details with government departments and other organisations. This may lead to a compliance inspection.
You could face up to 10 years in prison if you supply workers to the regulated sectors without a gangmaster’s licence.
Contact us by:
- email at licensing@fairworkagency.gov.uk
- phone on 0345 161 6000
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (except public holidays)