RATCH COOKIE POLICY
Last updated: 20th May 2026
This Cookie Policy explains how Ratch (“Ratch”, “we”, “us”, “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website and marketplace platform (“Platform”).
This Policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy.
By continuing to use the Platform, you acknowledge the use of cookies in accordance with this Policy, subject to your consent preferences where required by law.
1. WHAT ARE COOKIES?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website.
Cookies help websites:
- function properly;
- remember user preferences;
- improve security;
- analyse website traffic;
- personalise content and advertising.
Cookies may be:
- session cookies (deleted when you close your browser); or
- persistent cookies (stored for a defined period).
Cookies may also be:
- first-party cookies (set by Ratch); or
- third-party cookies (set by external services).
2. HOW RATCH USES COOKIES
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
- operating and securing the Platform;
- remembering user preferences;
- managing logins and sessions;
- analysing website traffic and performance;
- improving functionality;
- measuring marketing effectiveness;
- preventing fraud and abuse.
3. TYPES OF COOKIES WE USE
3.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the operation of the Platform.
They may include cookies used for:
- account login;
- authentication;
- security;
- shopping basket functionality;
- payment processing;
- fraud prevention;
- load balancing.
These cookies cannot be disabled through our cookie settings because the Platform may not function properly without them.
Legal basis:
- legitimate interests;
- performance of a contract.
3.2 Functional Cookies
These cookies allow the Platform to remember:
- language preferences;
- account settings;
- display preferences;
- seller dashboard settings.
Legal basis:
- consent where required;
- legitimate interests.
3.3 Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how users interact with the Platform.
We may use analytics tools such as:
- Google Analytics;
- performance monitoring tools;
- user behaviour analytics.
These cookies may collect:
- pages viewed;
- session duration;
- referral sources;
- click behaviour;
- device and browser information.
Analytics data is generally aggregated and anonymised where possible.
Legal basis:
3.4 Advertising and Marketing Cookies
These cookies may be used to:
- measure advertising performance;
- personalise advertising;
- track marketing campaigns;
- limit repetitive adverts.
Third-party advertising partners may use cookies to build interest profiles and display relevant advertising on other websites.
Legal basis:
4. THIRD-PARTY COOKIES
Some cookies are placed by third-party services integrated into the Platform.
These may include:
- payment providers;
- analytics providers;
- customer support tools;
- embedded social media content;
- advertising networks.
Ratch does not control third-party cookies directly.
You should review the privacy and cookie policies of relevant third parties for further information.
5. COOKIE CONSENT
Where required by law, we will request your consent before placing non-essential cookies on your device.
You may:
- accept all cookies;
- reject non-essential cookies;
- customise cookie preferences.
You can change your cookie preferences at any time using the cookie settings tool available on the Platform.
6. MANAGING COOKIES
Most web browsers allow you to:
- view cookies;
- delete cookies;
- block cookies;
- restrict tracking technologies.
Browser settings vary depending on your browser provider.
Disabling certain cookies may affect the functionality of the Platform.
Useful browser guidance can typically be found on:
- Google Chrome;
- Mozilla Firefox;
- Safari;
- Microsoft Edge browser support pages.
7. RETENTION PERIODS
Cookies may remain on your device for different periods depending on their purpose.
Typical retention periods include:
- session duration cookies;
- short-term security cookies;
- longer-term preference or analytics cookies.
Where possible, retention periods are limited to what is necessary for the relevant purpose.
8. SIMILAR TECHNOLOGIES
Ratch may also use similar technologies including:
- pixels;
- local storage;
- SDKs;
- scripts;
- tags.
These technologies may be used for similar purposes to cookies.
9. CHANGES TO THIS POLICY
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time.
Updated versions will be published on the Platform with a revised “Last updated” date.
Continued use of the Platform following updates constitutes acknowledgement of the revised Policy.
10. CONTACT US
If you have questions about this Cookie Policy, contact:
Ratch:
cookies@ratch.uk
