Privacy Policy

Last Updated: 2023

At Alpine Trek Sale Store (sportshoessupply.com), we believe that trust is the foundation of every ascent, both on the rock and online. Just as we meticulously select performance gear from brands like Scarpa and La Sportiva, we are committed to handling your personal data with the utmost care, transparency, and security. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, protect, and share information when you visit our store, serving our global community of climbers and boulderers.

1. Who We Are & Our Climbers

We are Alpine Trek Sale Store, a UK-based specialist retailer catering to performance-driven and value-conscious climbers worldwide. Our target climbers range from sport climbers in London to boulderers in Asia (where deliveries are available), and families building their adventure kits. This policy is designed for this global audience, respecting international privacy norms.

2. Information We Collect

To provide you with a seamless checkout and tailored experience, we collect the following data:

A. Information You Provide Directly:

• Order & Identity Data: Name, billing/shipping address, email address, phone number.
• Payment Data: Credit/debit card details (processed securely by our PCI DSS compliant payment gateway, not stored by us) or PayPal account information.
• Communication Data: Correspondence with our team via email (e.g., [email protected]).

B. Information Collected Automatically:

• Technical & Usage Data: IP address, browser type, device information, pages visited on our site (e.g., browsing chalk bags vs. hook-and-loop shoes), and how you interact with our content.
• Cookie Data: See Section 6 below for detailed information.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your data with the precision of a well-placed brush stroke, strictly for the following purposes:

• To Fulfil Your Order: Processing payments, shipping your gear (shoes, chalk bags, brushes) globally from our Bath HQ, and providing order confirmations and tracking.
• To Communicate: Sending essential service updates, responding to your inquiries, and providing customer support.
• To Improve Our Store: Analysing site usage to enhance performance, curate our product range (like our selection of lace-up vs. slip-on shoes), and streamline the checkout experience.
• For Security & Compliance: Protecting our website and business from fraud, and complying with legal obligations.

4. Sharing & Disclosure of Your Data

We treat your data like trusted beta—shared only with essential partners to complete your journey:

• Payment Processors: Secure third parties (like PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, JCB gateways) to handle transactions. We do not store your full card details.
• Shipping & Logistics Partners: To deliver your equipment worldwide (excluding certain remote regions).
• Legal Requirements: If required by law, or to protect our rights, safety, or property.

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal data to third parties for marketing purposes.

5. Data Storage, Security & International Transfers

• Storage: Data is stored on secure servers. As a UK-based store shipping globally, your data may be transferred and processed outside your country of residence, including to the UK.
• Our Security Commitment: Your security is non-negotiable, like the rubber on your climbing shoes.
  • SSL Encryption: All data transmitted is secured via encrypted connections.
  • PCI DSS Compliance: Our payment processing adheres to the highest industry standards.
  • No Storage of Payment Details: We never store your full card information on our servers.
• Retention: We retain your personal data only as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy, or as required by law.

6. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies—small data files—to function effectively, much like chalk improves grip. They help us:

• Keep items in your shopping cart as you browse.
• Remember your preferences (like currency).
• Understand how climbers use our site to improve performance.

You can control cookie settings through your browser. Disabling them may affect site functionality, akin to climbing without chalk.

7. Your Rights & Choices

You have rights regarding your personal data, including:

• Access & Correction: To request access to or correction of your data.
• Deletion: To request deletion of your personal data, subject to legal obligations.
• Opt-out: To object to or restrict certain processing.
• Data Portability: To request a copy of your data in a structured format.

To exercise these rights, contact us at [email protected]. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe, consistent with applicable laws like the UK GDPR.

8. Transparent Pricing & Data Considerations

Just as our product pricing is final and transparent, so is our data policy. Please note:

• All transactions are processed in British Pounds (£). Your card provider or PayPal handles currency conversion.
• While we display clear prices, import duties/taxes are the responsibility of the customer, as outlined at checkout.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy occasionally, just as we refine our gear selection. The latest version will always be posted here with an updated “Last Updated” date.