What Are B2B Data Compliance Rules? A Simple Guide

What are B2B data compliance rules? It’s a vital question for any UK SME using purchased data for cold outreach — whether it’s email, telemarketing, or direct mail.

Too many businesses assume that B2B marketing comes with fewer legal strings than B2C. And while there is more flexibility, you still need to meet strict requirements under laws like GDPR, CTPS, and PECR.

Failing to follow these rules doesn’t just risk fines — it can kill your campaign performance, damage your brand, and waste your marketing budget.

The good news? Staying compliant isn’t as complex as it sounds. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials in plain English — from what rules apply to what to ask your data provider — all with one goal in mind: helping you market safely and effectively.

Why B2B Data Compliance Matters

Compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about protecting your brand and getting better results from every campaign.

The Risks of Non-Compliance

• Fines from the ICO for GDPR or PECR breaches

• Reputational damage from poorly targeted or illegal outreach

• Wasted spend from low-quality or high-bounce data

The Rewards of Getting It Right

• Higher engagement from cleaner, better-targeted lists

• Increased trust and fewer complaints or unsubscribes

• Confidence that your outreach won’t land you in legal trouble

B2B vs B2C – What’s the Difference?

B2B marketing can often rely on “legitimate interest” as a legal basis under GDPR. That gives you more flexibility — but not a free pass. The way you collect, store, and use personal data still matters.

Key UK B2B Data Regulations Explained

Here’s what UK SMEs need to understand to keep their data use legal, ethical, and effective.

GDPR & Legitimate Interest

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies when you use personal data — including individual business emails or names.

B2B marketers can use data under legitimate interest if:

• The outreach is relevant and expected

• There’s a clear privacy notice

• An opt-out is available at every touchpoint

You should avoid collecting unnecessary personal info and always document your legal basis.

CTPS – Corporate Telephone Preference Service

CTPS screening is a legal requirement for B2B telemarketing. If you call a number listed on CTPS without checking, you could face fines up to £500,000.

• Screen every number before dialling

• Log your CTPS checks for audit trails

• Remember: sole traders may also need TPS screening

PECR – Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations

PECR sets the rules for marketing by phone, email, or SMS.

• Limited companies can be emailed under legitimate interest

• Sole traders and partnerships must opt in first

• Every message must include an opt-out option

4 Common Compliance Mistakes SMEs Make

Even experienced marketers can get caught out. Here are the most common errors — and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Thinking GDPR Doesn’t Apply to B2B

GDPR covers any personal data — and that includes business contact details tied to individuals.

✅ Fix: Apply GDPR principles to all outreach. Use privacy notices, opt-outs, and legal bases like legitimate interest.

Mistake #2: Not Documenting Legitimate Interest

Just saying “it’s legitimate interest” doesn’t cut it. You need to assess and document why your outreach is appropriate.

✅ Fix: Complete a short legitimate interest assessment and publish your privacy policy.

Mistake #3: Using Outdated, Unscreened Data

Old data risks more than poor results — it can breach CTPS and PECR rules.

✅ Fix: Use regularly updated data from a reputable supplier that screens for CTPS.

Mistake #4: Forgetting Opt-Outs and Privacy Info

Every email or letter must make it clear who you are and how to opt out.

✅ Fix: Add clear opt-out links or unsubscribe instructions in every message.

What to Ask Your Data Supplier About Compliance

Before you buy, ask these essential questions to protect your campaigns and stay on the right side of the law.

1. Are Records CTPS-Screened and GDPR-Compliant?

Ensure the supplier screens for CTPS and follows a legitimate legal basis under GDPR.

2. Is the Data Fresh and Legally Sourced?

Good data providers know the source and last update date. If they can’t say — avoid.

3. Can You Confirm How the Data Was Collected?

Transparency here is vital. You need to know the data was gathered legally.

4. What Support Do You Offer Around Opt-Outs and Privacy?

A reliable provider will guide you on including the right privacy info and help you handle suppressions.

Why Choose Results Driven Marketing

At Results Driven Marketing, we’ve made compliance part of our DNA — so you can focus on results without worrying about risk.

Built-In Compliance Standards

• CTPS-checked phone data on every order

• GDPR-aligned data under legitimate interest

• Monthly refresh with 700,000+ updated records

Risk-Reducing Support

• Brief review to avoid non-compliant targeting (e.g. sole traders via email)

• Transparent sourcing from 118, Thomson, CorpData and other trusted partners

• Data formatted to drop straight into your CRM

Fast, Secure Delivery

• Password-protected Excel/CSV files delivered in 24 hours

• Multi-channel records (email, phone, postal)

• Privacy guidance included to help keep campaigns compliant

Final Thoughts – Compliance Isn’t a Barrier, It’s a Boost

Asking what are B2B data compliance rules shows you care about doing marketing properly — and that’s what makes the difference.

Staying compliant with GDPR, PECR, and CTPS isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about building trust, improving results, and protecting your brand. And with the right support, it’s simple.

At Results Driven Marketing, we deliver clean, compliant data — fast. So you can launch effective outreach that’s smart, safe, and scalable.

✅ Ready to run a compliant campaign?

Contact us or buy email lists tailored to your marketing goals — with full legal peace of mind.

Results Driven Marketing
Helping UK SMEs grow with accurate, campaign-ready marketing lists.
📞 0191 406 6399 | rdmarketing.co.uk
Cobalt Business Exchange, Newcastle upon Tyne