Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 9, 2025

This Privacy Policy outlines how AKINA Tea, operated by GDS Platforms, Inc. (“Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), collects, uses, and protects your personal information when you engage with us offline or online, including through our website, social media channels, and other services (“Service”). By using our Service, you consent to the collection and use of your information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. Unless otherwise stated, terms in this Privacy Policy have the same meaning as in our Terms and Conditions.
Note: This Privacy Policy includes an arbitration provision requiring you to resolve disputes through individual arbitration, waiving the right to a jury trial or class action. The arbitration clause also includes a prevailing legal fee provision and states that Texas law governs this agreement.

1. Consent

By using our website, creating an account, or accessing our services, you agree to the collection, use, disclosure, and storage of your personal and non-personal data as described in this policy.

2. Interpretation and Definitions

Definitions

          Account: A unique profile created to access our Service.
          Company: Refers to GDS Platforms, Inc. c/o AKINA Tea, 4261 E University Dr. #30-393, Prosper, TX 75078.
          Cookies: Small files stored on your device to enhance your user experience.
          Personal Data: Information that identifies an individual (e.g., name, email).
          Service Provider: Third parties assisting in service delivery (e.g., analytics, marketing).
          Usage Data: Data collected automatically (e.g., browser type, time spent on pages).
          You: The individual accessing or using our Service.

3. Data Collection

Personal Data

We may collect:
          Name, email, and phone number.
          Shipping and billing addresses.
          Payment information (via secure third-party processors).
          Preferences, purchase history, and survey responses.

Usage Data

Automatically collected data may include:
          IP address and device type.
          Browser details and operating system.
          Pages viewed and time spent on the website.

Cookies

We use cookies to enhance functionality and personalize your experience. You can manage your cookie preferences in your browser settings.

4. Cookie Policy

We use cookies and similar technologies to improve and personalize your experience. These may include:

Types of Cookies We Use

          Essential Cookies: Required for website functionality (e.g., secure logins).
          Performance Cookies: Help us analyze how you use the website (e.g., Google Analytics).
          Marketing Cookies: Used for personalized advertising via platforms like Google Ads and Meta Ads.
Managing Cookies
          You can disable cookies in your browser settings. However, some features of the website may not function properly without cookies.

5. How We Use Your Data

We may use your information to:
          Fulfill orders and provide customer support.
          Send newsletters and promotional offers (with opt-out options).
          Analyze website usage to improve functionality.
          Comply with legal obligations.

6. Retention of Data

          Personal Data: Retained as required by the laws of the state of Texas or Federal law, whichever is greater.
          Transactional Data: Retained for 5 years to comply with tax and regulatory requirements.

7. Behavioral Remarketing

          We use behavioral tracking tools, including:
          Google Analytics: To track and analyze website usage.
          Meta Ads: To serve personalized advertisements based on your activity. 
          You can manage your ad preferences through:Google Ads Settings: https://www.google.com/settings/ads
          Meta Ads Preferences: https://www.facebook.com/help/568137493302217

8. Your Rights (GDPR and CCPA Compliance)

          Access and Portability: You may request access to the personal data we have collected.
          Correction: Request corrections to inaccurate personal information.
          Deletion: Request that we delete your personal data, subject to legal requirements.
          Opt-Out: Opt out of the sale or sharing of your personal information, if applicable under CCPA.
For GDPR or CCPA requests, contact us at privacy@akinateausa.com.

9. Security

We use commercially reasonable measures to protect your data but cannot guarantee absolute security due to inherent internet risks.

10. Arbitration Clause

Any dispute relating to the use of our website or services will be resolved through binding arbitration under Texas law.
          Prevailing Legal Fees: The prevailing party in any arbitration will be entitled to recover reasonable legal fees and costs.
          Choice of Law: The arbitration will be governed by the laws of the state of Texas.

11. Children’s Privacy

Our Service is not intended for individuals under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children.

12. Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted with the updated effective date.

13. Contact

For questions, contact:
GDS Platforms, Inc. c/o AKINA Tea
4261 E University Dr. #30-393
Prosper, TX 75078
Email: privacy@akinateausa.com