Advertising Standards Authority, or ASA, is a self-regulatory organisation that regulates the advertising industry in the UK. In order to help small businesses better understand and comply with the advertising rules, they compiled a collection of resources designed to help them be informative, helpful, and honest about their products and services.
Advertising Standards Authority, or ASA, UK’s regulator of advertising. In order to help small businesses better understand and comply with the advertising rules, they compiled a collection of resources designed to help them be informative, helpful, and honest about their products and services.
From Brexit to the pandemic to the cost of living crisis, it’s been a challenging time for UK businesses. Small businesses are eager to advertise to potential customers and ensure they are following all the rules. However, around 4/5 of ads that the ASA amended or withdrawn in 2022 were organic (non-paid-for) ads on social media from small businesses and sole traders. That’s why ASA’s collection of materials, specifically designed with small businesses in mind, provides the most up-to-date, relevant advice. Topics include how to avoid misleading consumers, details on pricing claims and how to responsibly market promotions and competitions.
Miles Lockwood, Director of Complaints and Investigations at the ASA, said:
“Small businesses are the beating heart of the British economy and, as we transition away from the pandemic and into an increasingly digital landscape, we want to work with them to ensure that ads remain legal, decent, honest and truthful.”
This free collection will be available alongside regular training and advice sessions, as well as bespoke copy advice that anyone can take advantage of to ensure their ads are up to scratch.
The ASA will continue to update its small business advice collection, and businesses should get in touch if they have any questions or concerns.
