Privacy, Cookies & Terms of Sale

Welcome to the Valtos Studio website. Valtos Studio respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This policy explains how information is collected, used and stored when you visit this website or make a purchase.

By continuing to browse and use this website, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following terms, which govern the relationship between Valtos Studio, Nigel Reid-Foster, and you as the user.

1. Who We Are

Valtos Studio is operated by Nigel Reid-Foster, a sole trader trading as Valtos Studio, based in Kilcreggan, Scotland.

References to “Valtos Studio”, “we”, “us” or “our” refer to the business. “You” refers to the user or viewer of this website.

Contact: contact@valtosstudio.com

For the purposes of UK data protection law, Nigel Reid-Foster is the data controller of your personal data.

2. What Information We Collect

We may collect the following data:

Information you provide directly:

  • Name

  • Email address

  • Billing and delivery address

  • Order details

Automatically collected data:

  • IP address

  • Browser type and device information

  • Pages visited and usage data

This website is hosted on Squarespace, which may collect data through its platform analytics and cookies.

3. How We Use Your Data

Your data is used to:

  • Respond to enquiries

  • Process and fulfil orders

  • Provide customer support

  • Improve website performance and user experience

  • Meet legal and accounting obligations

We only process your data where we have a lawful basis, including:

  • Contract (to fulfil orders)

  • Legitimate interests (to improve services)

  • Consent (for non-essential cookies)

4. Payments

Payments are processed securely via Squarespace Commerce and third-party providers such as Stripe or PayPal.

Valtos Studio does not store or have access to your full payment details.

5. Cookies

This website uses cookies to ensure functionality and improve your experience.

Types of cookies used:

  • Essential cookies – required for the website to function

  • Analytics cookies – help us understand how visitors use the site

On your first visit, you will be given the option to accept or manage cookies in line with UK GDPR requirements.

You can also control cookies through your browser settings.

6. Data Sharing

We only share data where necessary, including with:

  • Squarespace (website hosting and analytics)

  • Payment providers (to process transactions)

  • Delivery services (to fulfil orders)

We do not sell or rent your personal data.

7. Data Retention

We retain personal data only for as long as necessary:

  • Order records are retained for legal and accounting purposes

  • Enquiry emails are retained for customer service follow-up

8. Your Rights (UK GDPR)

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal data

  • Request correction or deletion

  • Restrict or object to processing

  • Request data portability

  • Withdraw consent where applicable

To exercise these rights, please contact: contact@valtosstudio.com

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

9. Security

We take appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your data. However, no method of transmission over the internet is completely secure.

Terms of Sale

10. Products

All ValtosStudio ceramics are handmade and therefore unique. Variations in colour, surface and form are inherent to the making process and are not considered defects.

11. Pricing & Payment

All prices are listed in GBP (£). Valtos Studio is not VAT registered; therefore VAT is not applicable.

Payment must be received in full before items are dispatched.

12. Shipping Policy

Valtos Studio aims to ensure that all orders are carefully packaged and delivered safely.

Processing Times

Orders are typically processed within 2–5 working days. During busy periods, processing times may be slightly longer. You will receive confirmation once your order has been dispatched.

UK Shipping

Orders are sent via Royal Mail or a tracked courier service.
Estimated delivery time: 2–5 working days after dispatch.

International Shipping

Valtos Studio does not currently ship ceramics outside the UK. This will be reviewed in the future.

Shipping Costs

Shipping costs are applied at checkout currently based on a flat rate contribution to the postage and packaging cost.

Packaging

All ceramics are securely wrapped and boxed using protective materials. Where possible, packaging is reused or recyclable.

Delays

Valtos Studio is not responsible for delays caused by postal services or circumstances beyond our control.

Lost or Damaged Items

If your order arrives damaged:

  • Contact us within 48 hours of delivery

  • Include photographs of the item and packaging

If your order does not arrive:

  • Please allow sufficient time before contacting us

  • We will assist in tracking the item where possible

Shipping enquiries: contact@valtosstudio.com

13. Returns & Refunds

Under UK consumer law, you have the right to return most items within 14 days of receiving your order.

Conditions:

  • Items must be unused and in original condition

  • You must notify us within 14 days of delivery

  • Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the buyer unless the item is faulty

Non-returnable items:

  • Custom or commissioned pieces

Damaged or faulty items:
If your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 48 hours with photographs. A replacement or refund will be offered.

Refunds are processed once items are safely returned.

14. Liability

Valtos Studio is not liable for any indirect or consequential loss arising from the use of this website or purchased goods.

15. Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page.