Ok, so I am at the moment I am in the process of setting up an online retail business, which will be selling through its own website as well as Ebay and Amazon. I would also, at some point in the future, like to set up multiple other websites in different markets.

My question, then, is whether I should operate them as separate businesses, under a 'parent' business, or whether I should have them as one business, with each website being named, for example, "Smith Electronics" or "Smith Office". I'm unaware of the logistics or viability of either, and would be grateful for any help.
Revised on 09/02/2012 13:11
Also, I will be acting as a sole trader, with a view to becoming limited if it takes off. As such, I would like any solution to take into account this possibility.