Cookie Policy
Cookie Policy
This Cookie Policy explains how [Company name] uses cookies and similar technologies on this website, and how you can control them. It should be read alongside our Privacy Policy.
A cookie is a small text file a website stores on your device. Cookies let the site work, remember your preferences, and (with your consent) help us understand how the site is used.
Who we are
This website is operated by [Company legal name] (company number [Company number]), [Registered address]. For any questions about this policy, contact us at [Email] or [Phone].
Your consent and control
When you first visit, we ask whether you accept analytics cookies. Strictly necessary cookies do not require consent and are always set. Analytics cookies are only set if you accept them.
You can change or withdraw your choice at any time using the Cookie settings link in the footer, or by clearing cookies in your browser. Most browsers also let you block or delete cookies in their settings, though blocking strictly necessary cookies may stop parts of the site working.
Strictly necessary cookies
These are required for the site to function (your basket, signing in, checkout and security). They cannot be switched off.
| Cookie | Purpose | Provider | Expiry |
|---|---|---|---|
| ger_cart_session | Keeps the items in your basket | [Company name] | 30 days |
| ger_customer_session | Keeps you signed in to your account | [Company name] | 30 days |
| ger_cookie_consent | Remembers your cookie choices | [Company name] | 1 year |
| ger_selected_store | Remembers your chosen trade counter for local stock | [Company name] | 90 days |
| ger_vat_mode | Remembers whether prices show inc/ex VAT | [Company name] | 1 year |
| ger_grid_columns | Remembers your product grid layout | [Company name] | 1 year |
| __stripe_mid, __stripe_sid | Fraud prevention during card payment (set on checkout only) | Stripe | Up to 1 year / session |
Analytics cookies (require your consent)
These help us measure and improve the site. They are only set if you accept analytics in the cookie banner.
| Cookie | Purpose | Provider | Expiry |
|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Distinguishes visitors | Google Analytics | 2 years |
| ga* | Maintains session state | Google Analytics | 2 years |
| _gid | Distinguishes visitors | Google Analytics | 24 hours |
Other third parties
Some third-party services we use to run the site may set their own cookies when their content loads: Adobe Fonts (web fonts) and OpenStreetMap (map tiles on our Trade Counters page). These are used for display only, not advertising. Payment pages are handled by Stripe and GoCardless, who set their own cookies on their own services to process your payment securely.
Changes to this policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page.
Complaints
You can complain to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) at ico.org.uk. Our ICO registration number is [ICO registration number].