.IE and Retail Excellence Web Health Report

Cookie compliance GDPR requires that business owners disclose what information is collected from website visitors, such as personal data and what is done with this information. If cookies are used to collect data from website users, then a cookie policy is required. Cookies keep a user logged in as they browse various pages on a website. A user’s browsing history becomes part of a database which the website then uses to improve the customer’s experience and website usability. A survey in 2021 by Irish Legal News shows that 50% of those surveyed updated their cookie policy but a substantial 40% failed to do so. It is important for online businesses to be fully compliant. Smaller companies are the least compliant. The sectors with the lowest levels of compliance include Jewellery, Garden, Electrical, Opticians and Pharmacy – all under 20%. Security and compliance Company size % who are cookie compliant 0-20 21-100 101-250 251-600 600+ 14% 43% 50% 56% 50% Top 5 categories who are cookie compliant % of compliant n Key takeaway Companies without a cookie policy could face very significant fines from the Data Protection Commission. Security on websites is extremely important as it protects both the business and its customers. Customers need to feel safe and be able to trust the website they are using. Tourism Books, Music, Stationery, Toys, Games Telecoms Department Store Café 75% 52% 50% 45% 44% Only 23% of websites are cookie compliant 8