COOKIE POLICY

for thesoftstep.com

Last updated: 22 November 2025

1. About this Cookie Policy

1.1. This Cookie Policy explains how Incubated ltd, trading as The SoftStep (“we”, “us”, “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on thesoftstep.com (the “Website”).

1.2. This Policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy, which explains how we process personal data.

1.3. When you visit our Website, you will be asked to set your cookie preferences. By accepting cookies, you agree to their use as described in this Policy.

2. What are cookies?

2.1. Cookies are small text files placed on your device (such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit a website.

2.2. Cookies help websites function properly and improve user experience by remembering preferences, enabling features, and collecting usage data.

2.3. Cookies may be:

  • First-party cookies – set by our Website; or
  • Third-party cookies – set by external services we use

3. Types of cookies we use

We use the following categories of cookies:

3.1. Strictly necessary cookies

These cookies are essential for the operation of the Website and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are used for:

  • Secure login and authentication
  • Shopping cart and checkout functionality
  • Page navigation and core functionality
  • Security and fraud prevention

These cookies do not require consent.

3.2. Performance and analytics cookies

These cookies help us understand how visitors use our Website by collecting information such as:

  • Number of visitors
  • Pages visited
  • Time spent on pages
  • Traffic sources
  • Device and browser information

We may use tools such as Google Analytics or similar providers.

Consent required: Yes

3.3. Functionality cookies

These cookies enable enhanced features and personalisation, including:

  • Remembering your preferences
  • Enabling embedded content (e.g. videos)
  • Supporting live chat or interactive tools

Consent required: Yes

3.4. Targeting and advertising cookies

These cookies are used to deliver relevant advertisements and measure marketing effectiveness. They may:

  • Track browsing activity across websites
  • Build user profiles
  • Deliver personalised advertising
  • Support platforms such as Google Ads, Meta, or TikTok

Consent required: Yes

4. Third-party cookies

4.1. We may use third-party services that set cookies on your device, including:

  • Google Analytics
  • Meta (Facebook) Pixel
  • TikTok Pixel
  • Video platforms (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo)
  • Payment providers
  • Email marketing platforms
  • Social media integrations

4.2. These third parties may process your data in accordance with their own privacy policies. We recommend reviewing those policies for further details.

5. Managing your cookie preferences

5.1. On our Website

When you first visit the Website, you will be presented with a cookie banner allowing you to:

  • Accept all cookies
  • Reject non-essential cookies
  • Customise your preferences

You can update your preferences at any time by revisiting the cookie banner or contacting us.

5.2. Through your browser

You can also manage cookies through your browser settings, including blocking or deleting cookies.

Common browser guides:

  • Chrome
  • Safari
  • Firefox
  • Edge

Please note:

  • Disabling cookies may affect Website functionality
  • Some features may not work correctly without essential cookies

6. Example cookies we use

Below is a general overview of the types of cookies we may use:

Cookie Type Purpose Examples
Strictly necessary Core functionality and security wp_woocommerce_session_, secure_customer_sig
Analytics Usage tracking and performance _ga, _gid, _gat
Functionality Preferences and customisation chat_widget_id, preferences_cookie
Advertising Ad targeting and measurement _fbp, fr, _tt_enable_cookie, IDE

Note: This is an example list and may not include all cookies currently in use.

7. Legal basis for cookies

Under the UK GDPR and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR):

  • Strictly necessary cookies do not require consent
  • All other cookies require your prior consent

Our cookie banner is designed to ensure compliance with these requirements.

8. Changes to this Cookie Policy

8.1. We may update this Policy from time to time to reflect changes in:

  • Our use of cookies
  • Legal or regulatory requirements
  • Website functionality

8.2. The latest version will always be available on this page.

9. Contact us

If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, please contact:

Email: [email protected]
 Telephone: 020 8050 0204