This Cookie Policy explains how Ralph Wilson ("we", "us", "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on ralph-wilson.com (the "Site"). It should be read alongside our Privacy Policy. By continuing to browse the Site after seeing our cookie banner, you consent to our use of cookies as described below, except where your consent is required by law and has not been given.
1. What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work efficiently, remember preferences, and provide information to site owners. Similar technologies include local storage (such as localStorage, which we use to remember your cookie consent choice and shopping cart contents), session storage, and pixel tags.
2. How we use cookies
We use cookies and local storage to: ensure the Site functions correctly; remember your cookie consent preference (stored under the key "cookie_consent" in localStorage); maintain your shopping cart between visits; understand how visitors use the Site through analytics; and improve content and performance based on aggregated usage patterns.
3. Types of cookies we use
Strictly necessary cookies: Essential for the Site to operate. They include session management and security cookies. These cannot be switched off in our systems. Without them, services like the shopping cart and cookie consent memory would not work.
Functional cookies: Enable enhanced functionality such as remembering your preferences. We use localStorage to store cart items and consent choices. These may be set by us or by third-party providers whose services we use.
Analytics cookies: Help us understand how visitors interact with the Site by collecting anonymous, aggregated information such as page views, traffic sources, and time on page. This helps us improve our financial literacy content for young adults.
Marketing cookies: May be used to track visitors across websites to display relevant advertisements. We minimise use of marketing cookies and will request consent before activating non-essential tracking where required by the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
4. Specific cookies and storage items
- cookie_consent (localStorage) | Stores your cookie banner choice ("accepted" or "dismissed"). Duration: until cleared. Purpose: prevent repeated banner display.
- rw_cart (localStorage) | Stores shopping cart book IDs and quantities. Duration: until cleared. Purpose: cart functionality.
- Session cookies: Temporary cookies deleted when you close your browser. Purpose: maintain browsing session integrity.
5. Third-party cookies
Some cookies may be set by third-party services embedded on our Site, such as payment processors, analytics providers, or content delivery networks. We do not control these cookies. Please refer to the respective third party's privacy and cookie policies for more information. When you click external links (for example, to Amazon for book purchases), those sites will apply their own cookie policies.
6. Managing your cookie preferences
When you first visit the Site, our cookie banner allows you to Accept or Close. Your choice is saved in localStorage and the banner will not reappear unless you clear your browser storage. You can also control cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to refuse or delete cookies. Blocking all cookies may affect Site functionality, including the shopping cart and saved preferences.
To manage localStorage specifically, use your browser's developer tools or clear site data for ralph-wilson.com. Instructions vary by browser: Chrome (Settings → Privacy → Clear browsing data), Firefox (Settings → Privacy → Cookies and Site Data), Safari (Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data), Edge (Settings → Privacy → Choose what to clear).
7. Legal basis
Strictly necessary cookies are used based on our legitimate interest in providing a functional website. Non-essential cookies and analytics require your consent under PECR and UK GDPR. You may withdraw consent at any time by clearing cookies and localStorage or adjusting browser settings.
8. Updates to this policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology, legislation, or our practices. The "Last updated" date indicates the latest revision. We encourage you to review this page periodically.
9. Contact us
If you have questions about our use of cookies, contact us at privacy@ralph-wilson.com or visit ralph-wilson.com.