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As a result of important measures introduced to reduce the spread of COVID-19 — including social distancing rules and restricted trading for certain industries — many businesses have been forced to explore alternative options to generate revenue and remain resilient in today’s environment. With 2025 here, more businesses than ever are realising that moving online isn’t just a temporary fix – it’s an opportunity for sustainable growth.
It’s been inspiring to see so many businesses adapting their practices by moving online. Here are some examples:
- Retail shop fronts transforming into vibrant eCommerce platforms
- Gyms offering live streaming classes and remote personal training sessions
- Pharmacies taking online orders and organising secure delivery of medications
- Real estate agents conducting virtual residential and commercial inspections and auctions
- Education providers embracing online learning tools, with developers creating innovative platforms for their needs
- Professional service providers meeting clients via video conferencing, including accountants, lawyers and architects – check out our legal guide for online businesses for more details
- Medical professionals delivering telehealth services, such as consultations with doctors and psychologists
- Restaurants expanding delivery services and online ordering systems
So, how can you move your business online? Let’s consider the steps.
Steps For Moving Your Business Online
If you’ve never operated online before, the process can seem daunting. However, with clear planning and the right tools, you can smoothly transition into the digital space. We’ve broken down the key steps for you below.
Working On Your Website
A polished and user-friendly website is an invaluable marketing tool that provides customers with fast and easy access to your goods or services. Whether you’re updating an existing website or building one from scratch, having a clear online presence is essential in 2025.
If you don’t yet have a website, start by securing a memorable domain name and selecting a reliable hosting provider. Many companies offer both services on a monthly subscription basis. Popular options include WordPress, GoDaddy, Squarespace and for eCommerce, Shopify is a trusted name. This approach allows you to manage your website without needing extensive web design experience. You might also explore our step-by-step guide to starting an online company for further insights.
In addition to having a website, consider leveraging online marketing channels such as Instagram and Facebook, and even LinkedIn if you’re targeting professional audiences. Actively engaging with your subscribers will help to build your brand and foster customer loyalty.
Taking Payments
The simplest way to accept payments online is by integrating a third-party payment provider with your website. Options like Stripe and PayPal remain popular choices in 2025. These providers simplify the administration of online transactions, meaning you won’t need to set up a traditional merchant account.
By taking payment before you send goods or provide services, you can avoid the administrative hassle of chasing late payments, while also enhancing the customer’s trust through a secure transaction process. For more advice on protecting your transactions, you may wish to read our article on why a lawyer should review your contracts.
Taking Bookings & Orders
If your business model includes appointments or timed services, setting up an online booking system can save time and reduce the back-and-forth communications with clients. Applications such as Calendly allow your customers to seamlessly book appointments based on your pre-set availability, which automatically integrates with your calendar. This presents a professional, streamlined experience.
For those taking orders online – for instance, restaurants offering take-away services – a range of solutions exists such as Order Up! or even bespoke ordering systems. Consider exploring our online business legal guide to ensure your systems comply with the latest legal standards.
Delivering Services & Products
If you provide services delivered online, from virtual fitness classes to remote psychology sessions, you’ll require a reliable video communication tool such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Meet. Alternatively, if you plan to record sessions or classes for subscription-based access, hiring a professional videographer can be a wise investment to ensure high-quality content.
For product deliveries, from apparel to pharmaceuticals, partnering with trusted couriers is essential. In 2025, services like Shippit continue to offer a broad range of courier options, which can also help repurpose your existing staff for delivery roles. You might also look into specialised delivery agreements or review our guide on delivery service agreements for further legal clarity.
Managing A Remote Workforce
Managing a remote workforce demands effective communication and strong organisational tools. For daily communications, platforms like Slack offer quick messaging while Zoom or Microsoft Teams work well for longer, structured meetings. In addition, productivity tools such as Trello, Jira, Asana, and Monday.com can help you streamline workflows and keep everyone on track.
Do not underestimate the importance of clear policies when managing remote teams. Exploring our guide on legal essentials for small businesses may provide additional strategies to ensure that your remote arrangements have the proper legal backing.
Legal Things To Consider When Moving Your Business Online
While the operational side of moving online is crucial, safeguarding your business from a legal perspective is equally important. In 2025, updating your legal documents is a fundamental step toward protecting your new digital business model.
Terms and Conditions With Your Customers
Once online, you need to implement Website Terms & Conditions that clearly limit your liability and outline acceptable user behaviours. Even if you already have T&Cs in place, they’ll likely require updates to cover digital transactions, online payment processing, and the delivery of digital services.
For instance, what previously might have required a physical signature can now be confirmed by ticking a box online. Additionally, mention third-party payment providers in your T&Cs to clarify that you limit liability for their service performance. You should also consider practical issues such as returns and refund policies, and include a robust “force majeure” clause to cover potential delays that are beyond your control.
Privacy Policy
Transitioning online means you will be electronically collecting customer data, including addresses and payment information. Under the Privacy Act 2020, it is best practice – and widely expected – that your business has a comprehensive Privacy Policy in place.
Moreover, if you process data from individuals within the European Union, your Privacy Policy must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Learn more about GDPR compliance here. Ensuring compliance protects both you and your customers against potential data breaches and legal disputes.
Terms And Conditions With Your Suppliers
While moving online may reduce the need for physical infrastructure, it can increase your reliance on external suppliers, such as delivery drivers, software providers, and subscription services. If you’re redeploying staff (for instance, from shop fronts to delivery roles), their Employment or Contractor Agreements must be updated to reflect new working conditions and responsibilities, including requirements like holding a valid driver’s licence.
Every new business relationship should be secured with a formal agreement that protects your interests. It’s crucial to consult with legal experts – like those at Sprintlaw – to ensure these contracts are comprehensive and enforceable. Read more about drafting robust agreements in our article on what makes a contract legally binding.
Industry Specific Regulations
If you have pivoted your business model – say, from brewing beer to producing hand sanitisers – it’s imperative to be aware of industry specific regulations. Industries such as medical, food and beverage, and education are subject to stringent standards, and your T&Cs and operational policies must align with these regulatory requirements.
The Silver Lining
Though the process of moving your business online can appear overwhelming, it opens up exciting opportunities to broaden your customer base and expand your geographical reach. Operating digitally not only offers enhanced convenience and cost savings – with lower overheads such as rent – but also allows you to respond to customer enquiries 24/7.
Many businesses now find that the efficiency and flexibility of online operations continue to deliver benefits well beyond the initial transition period. In fact, the online environment’s adaptability can help your business thrive even in an ever-changing market. Our ongoing support programmes, detailed on our All Services page, can help guide you through these challenges and opportunities.
Online businesses enjoy numerous advantages:
- Expansion – Access a far broader audience compared to brick and mortar operations.
- Convenience – Customers can engage with your services anytime, without needing to travel.
- Cost Savings – Significantly reduce overheads such as rent and utilities.
- Responsiveness – Immediate customer enquiries and feedback are managed efficiently online.
- Flexibility – Remote working empowers your staff to operate from any location.
By embracing the digital way of operating, your business won’t just survive current challenges – it will be well placed to thrive on the other side.
Additional Tips for a Seamless Digital Transition
As technology evolves, staying informed about the latest digital tools and legal requirements is crucial. Consider subscribing to our Legal Tips newsletter to remain updated on topics such as cybersecurity, intellectual property and digital transaction regulations. Our dedicated guidance helps you ensure that your online operations remain compliant and competitive as we progress further into 2025.
Need Help?
At Sprintlaw, we operate fully online and have assisted numerous clients with their digital transformations. We understand the hurdles you may face and offer customised legal support to guide you every step of the way.
We’re also offering a range of discounted support packages for businesses impacted by recent global challenges. Access free resources and learn more about our services on our Coronavirus information page.
If you’d like to discuss your needs further, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team on 0800 002 184 or email us at [email protected].
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