What is SIC Code?

A Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code is a five-digit number that describes the nature of a business's activities. In the UK, Companies House uses SIC codes to categorise the work a company does; directors must provide at least one code when incorporating a company or filing a confirmation statement. HMRC also uses SIC codes for statistical and administrative purposes. The codes are based on the ONS 2007 SIC list, which groups all economic activity into sections, divisions, groups and classes — for example, 47710 covers retail sale of clothing in specialised stores.