Privacy Policy

1.0 Information on the Collection of Personal Data

At RetailMerch, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparency in how your personal data is collected, used, and safeguarded. This section outlines the types of data we collect, how we obtain it, and the purposes for which it is used.

1.1 Data We Collect

  • Personal Identification Information: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address.
  • Account & Login Information: Username, password, and security details.
  • Transaction Data: Purchase details, payment history, and shipping information.
  • Device & Technical Data: IP address, browser type, operating system, and device identifiers.
  • Usage Data: Interaction with our website, including page views, clicks, and browsing behavior.

2.0 Processing of Personal Data When Visiting Our Website

When you visit RetailMerch, we collect and process certain personal data to ensure the proper functioning of our website, enhance user experience, and maintain security.

2.1 Automatic Data Collection

  • IP Address: Used for security monitoring and fraud prevention.
  • Browser & Device Information: Helps us optimize our website for different browsers and devices.
  • Date, Time, and Duration of Visit: Assists in analyzing user activity and improving website performance.
  • Visited Pages & Interactions: Enables us to enhance navigation and improve user experience.
  • Cookies & Tracking Technologies: Used to store preferences, analyze user behavior, and personalize content.

2.2 Purpose of Data Processing

We process this data to:

  • Ensure website security and prevent unauthorized access.
  • Optimize website functionality and user experience.
  • Conduct analytical assessments to improve performance and service offerings.
  • Comply with legal requirements and protect against fraudulent activities.

3.0 Further Functions and Offers of Our Website

In addition to browsing and purchasing products, RetailMerch provides various functions and services designed to enhance user experience. When you interact with these features, we may collect and process personal data to ensure smooth functionality and personalized service.

3.1 Customer Accounts & Registration

Users can create accounts to streamline the shopping experience. When registering, we collect:

  • Name, email address, and contact details.
  • Login credentials (username and password).
  • Purchase history and preferences.

3.2 Newsletter & Marketing Communications

Users can subscribe to our newsletter or promotional emails. If opted in, we process:

  • Email address for sending updates and offers.
  • Preferences to tailor content to user interests. Users can unsubscribe anytime via the provided link in emails.

3.3 Contact & Support Requests

When users contact customer service, we process:

  • Contact details (email, phone number).
  • Inquiry details to address concerns effectively.

3.4 Payment & Order Processing

To facilitate transactions, we collect payment details securely through trusted payment gateways.

  • Order details, billing address, and shipping information.

4.0 Processing of Personal Data When You Contact Us or Register an Account

At RetailMerch, we collect and process personal data when users reach out to us or create an account. This helps us provide better service, facilitate transactions, and enhance user experience.

4.1 Contacting Us

When users contact RetailMerch via email, phone, or contact forms, we collect:

  • Contact Information: Name, email address, and phone number.
  • Inquiry Details: Message content, subject matter, and relevant account/order information.
  • Correspondence Records: For quality assurance and follow-up purposes.

4.2 Account Registration

To create and manage user accounts, we collect:

  • Personal Details: Name, email, shipping address, and contact number.
  • Login Credentials: Username and password.
  • Account Preferences: Communication preferences and settings.

Registered accounts allow users to:

  • Track orders and manage transactions.
  • Save preferences for future purchases.
  • Receive personalized recommendations and offers.

5.0 Shopping Information

At RetailMerch, we collect and process personal data to facilitate seamless shopping experiences and ensure secure transactions. This section outlines how we handle purchase-related information.

1.1 Order Processing

When users place an order, we collect the following data:

  • Billing Information: Name, billing address, and payment details.
  • Shipping Information: Name, delivery address, and contact number.
  • Order Details: Purchased items, quantity, and transaction history.

This data is used to confirm purchases, process payments, and arrange delivery.

5.2 Payment Processing

To securely process payments, we work with trusted payment providers. We do not store full payment card details; however, we may process:

  • Payment Method: Credit/debit card type, digital wallet, or other payment options.
  • Transaction Status: Payment confirmation, refunds, or disputes.

5.3 Order Tracking & Notifications

To keep users updated on their orders, we collect:

  • Order Status: Shipment tracking and estimated delivery dates.
  • Communication Preferences: Email or SMS updates about purchase status.

5.4 Returns & Refunds

For returns and refunds, we may process:

  • Return Requests: Reason for return, item details, and user feedback.
  • Refund Details: Transaction reference and payout method.

6.0 Cookies

To enhance user experience and improve website functionality, RetailMerch uses cookies and similar tracking technologies. This section outlines the types of cookies we use and how they affect your browsing experience.

6.1 What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help us recognize you and tailor our website to your preferences.

6.2 Types of Cookies We Use

We utilize the following categories of cookies:

  • Essential Cookies: Required for core website functionality, such as login authentication and shopping cart management.
  • Performance & Analytics Cookies: Help us track website usage, improve functionality, and analyze trends.
  • Functionality Cookies: Store user preferences, like language settings and personalized features.
  • Advertising & Third-Party Cookies: Used to display relevant advertisements and track ad performance.

6.3 Managing Cookies

Users can control cookie settings through their browser preferences. Most browsers allow users to:

  • Accept or reject cookies.
  • Delete stored cookies.
  • Set notifications before cookies are placed.

7.0 Transfer of Data to Third Parties

At RetailMerch, we prioritize the security and confidentiality of your personal data. However, in certain circumstances, we may transfer your data to trusted third parties to provide seamless services while adhering to Canadian data protection laws.

7.1 Legal Basis for Data Transfers

We transfer personal data only when:

  • It is necessary for fulfilling contracts (e.g., payment processing, shipping providers).
  • We are required by law, such as responding to government or regulatory authorities.
  • We have user consent for specific services like marketing partnerships.

7.2 Types of Third Parties Receiving Data

We may share personal data with:

  • Service Providers: Payment gateways, shipping carriers, cloud storage providers.
  • Business Partners: Marketing and analytics firms that enhance user experience.
  • Legal & Regulatory Authorities: When required by Canadian law or court orders.

7.3 Safeguards for Data Transfers

To ensure compliance with Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), we:

  • Require third parties to implement strong security measures.
  • Utilize encrypted data transmission protocols.
  • Ensure contracts include privacy protection clauses.

8.0 Retention and Erasure of Data

At RetailMerch, we retain personal data only as long as necessary for its intended purpose, in compliance with applicable Canadian data protection laws. This section outlines how we store, manage, and erase data.

8.1 Data Retention Periods

We retain personal data based on the following criteria:

  • Account Information: Stored for as long as the user maintains an active account.
  • Transaction Records: Retained for legal and accounting purposes, typically for 5 years
  • Marketing Preferences: Stored until the user opts out or withdraws consent.
  • Customer Support Inquiries: Kept for a reasonable period to resolve disputes or improve service.

8.2 Data Erasure Procedures

Users can request data deletion under applicable laws. We ensure proper erasure through:

  • Account Closure Requests: Users may request permanent deletion of their account and associated data.
  • Automated Deletion Cycles: We erase outdated data that is no longer needed.
  • Compliance with Legal Obligations: Certain records may be retained for legal or regulatory reasons.

8.3 How to Request Data Erasure

Users who wish to delete their data can contact us. We will process requests in accordance with Canadian privacy regulations.

9.0 How Is My Personal Data Protected?

At RetailMerch, we take data protection seriously and implement stringent security measures to safeguard your personal information from unauthorized access, misuse, or loss.

9.1 Security Measures

We employ industry-standard security practices to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and protection of your data. This includes:

  • Encryption: All sensitive data, including payment details, is encrypted using secure protocols.
  • Access Controls: Only authorized personnel have access to personal data, based on strict authentication protocols.
  • Secure Servers: Data is stored in protected environments with firewalls and monitoring systems.
  • Regular Audits & Monitoring: We conduct security assessments and monitor for potential breaches.

9.2 User Responsibilities

While we take every precaution to safeguard data, users play a role in protecting their information by:

  • Using strong passwords and updating them regularly.
  • Avoiding sharing login credentials with others.
  • Being cautious of phishing attempts and fraudulent messages.

9.3 Data Breach Response

In the unlikely event of a data breach, RetailMerch will:

  • Investigate and address vulnerabilities.
  • Notify affected users promptly as required by Canadian privacy laws.
  • Take corrective actions to prevent future incidents.

10.0 Your Rights

As a user of RetailMerch, you have several rights regarding your personal data, as governed by Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). This section outlines the rights you can exercise regarding your data.

10.1 Right to Access

You have the right to request information about the personal data we hold about you. Upon request, we will provide:

  • The categories of personal data collected.
  • The purpose for which the data is processed.
  • Third parties with whom data may have been shared.

10.2 Right to Rectification

If your personal data is inaccurate or incomplete, you can request corrections. We will update the information promptly to ensure accuracy.

10.3 Right to Withdraw Consent

Where data processing relies on your consent (such as marketing communications), you can withdraw your consent at any time.

10.4 Right to Data Portability

You may request a copy of your data in a structured, commonly used format to transfer it to another service provider.

10.5 Right to Erasure (“Right to Be Forgotten”)

You can request the deletion of your personal data under applicable conditions, such as when data is no longer necessary for its original purpose.

10.6 Right to Restrict Processing

You can request that we limit the use of your personal data under certain circumstances, such as when you contest its accuracy.

10.7 Right to Lodge a Complaint

If you believe your data rights have been violated, you have the right to file a complaint with Canada’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner or another relevant authority.

10.8 How to Exercise Your Rights

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us. We will respond to inquiries in accordance with Canadian privacy regulations.

11.0 Changes to This Privacy Policy

As RetailMerch continues to evolve, we may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices, regulatory requirements, or security measures. We encourage users to review this policy periodically to stay informed.

11.1 Notification of Changes

When updates are made, we will:

  • Post the revised Privacy Policy on our website with the updated effective date.
  • Notify registered users via email or other communication channels when significant changes occur.
  • Clearly outline the modifications made for transparency.

11.2 User Rights Regarding Policy Changes

If changes impact how we handle personal data, users will have the opportunity to:

  • Review and accept new terms before continuing to use our services.
  • Contact us with any concerns or requests regarding the updated policy.