People are increasingly shopping and selling products online for convenience and low costs. There are many e-commerce platforms, including Amazon, eBay and Redbubble. Most artists and original creators sell their art on Redbubble to avoid the hassle of printing art themselves. You may prefer this method to start your own art business. However, there are some legal factors to consider, such as business structuring and policies. This article will outline how you can legally sell products on Redbubble.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before launching your Redbubble shop, you should determine a business structure first. Your structure will determine your tax status, liabilities and finances. This is necessary to make decisions and comply with legal requirements. Common structures include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a sole trader, you will run the business on your own. Hence, you can make all decisions and claim all profits. However, you will bear all risks and costs and be personally liable for liabilities. For example, the bank can take your assets as payment if you fail to repay a loan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A partnership may be wise if you wish to run the business with a friend or family member. You can then share the profits, risks and costs. However, all partners will be personally liable for business debts if you do not incorporate your business as a company. Once incorporated, all partners will become shareholders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
To incorporate your business, you can apply on the Companies Register. Further, you will need to inform the Register of your directors and shareholders. Moreover, your company must comply with the Companies Act<\/em>. When running a company, it can also be helpful to draft a company constitution<\/a> and shareholders agreement to outline rights and responsibilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Your online store\u2019s most valuable asset is its intellectual property (IP). This can include your brand name, logo, and original artwork. Acquiring a trademark registration is the best way to protect your brand name and logo. Through this, you will gain exclusive rights to your trade mark and can take legal action against anyone copying or using it without your permission. However, trade mark registration can take time, so it is advisable to start this process early.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, your original artwork automatically receives copyright protection<\/a> in New Zealand. Therefore, you can place the copyright symbol on your artwork if you wish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n Continue reading this article below the form\n <\/i>\n<\/a>\nIntellectual Property<\/h2>\n\n\n\n