Backing business Hello, and welcome to the latest edition of Trading Standards Business News (TSBN) my first since being appointed editor. My professional background is rooted in Trading Standards, although I have worked across a range of regulatory functions, in business support and enforcement roles, for more than 30 years. Frances Darling is trading standards and licensing manager with Shropshire Council, and its representative on the CEnTSA management board Local authority services dealing with regulatory matters are taking steps to ensure they can advise and support businesses whatever the outcome of Brexit Working with the TSBN Editorial Board, I want to use my experience to ensure the magazine continues to provide business owners with relevant advice on regulatory changes and best practice. Negotiations around the UKs withdrawal from and future relationship with the European Union continue to dominate our political landscape. It appears the only certainty is uncertainty and, clearly, this is a significant challenge for businesses across the country. Local authority services dealing with regulatory matters are taking steps to ensure they can advise and support businesses whatever the outcome. This advice is very much enhanced by the broader range of support that is available through the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). I would urge all businesses to contact their local Chamber and take full advantage of the information, guidance and support that is available to help them prepare for Brexit. There is a broad range of articles in this edition of TSBN, including retail crime, winter pest control, allergen advice for food producers and much more. I do hope you find them helpful. If so, please share TSBN with your business colleagues far and wide. If not, please let us know what you would like to see in future editions by emailing nickharrison@warwickshire.gov.uk. Until next time, For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Service