Membership Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: 01/06/2025

By joining, renewing, or maintaining a membership with the Welsh Whisky Society (WWS), you ("The Member") agree to be bound by the following Terms and Conditions. Please read them carefully.

1. Private Society Status & Right of Admission

1.1 The Welsh Whisky Society is a private members' club and society. Membership is a privilege, not a right. 1.2 The WWS Committee reserves the absolute right to refuse any application for membership without the requirement to provide a specific reason. 1.3 The WWS reserves the right to revoke, suspend, or terminate the membership of any individual at any time if they are found to be in breach of these Terms and Conditions or the Society’s Code of Conduct.

2. Membership Renewal & Refund Policy

2.1 Automatic Renewal: All WWS memberships are set to automatically renew every 12 months from the date of initial purchase or last renewal, using the payment method on file. 2.2 Cancellation: Members may cancel their auto-renewal at any time prior to the renewal date via their membership account portal or by contacting the Society directly. 2.3 No Refunds: Once a membership has renewed and the fee has been processed, no refunds will be issued. It is the responsibility of the Member to cancel their subscription before the renewal date if they do not wish to continue.

3. Code of Conduct: Anti-Bullying & Anti-Discrimination

The WWS is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all whisky enthusiasts. We operate a Zero Tolerance Policy regarding the following:

3.1 Anti-Discrimination: We do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Any member found engaging in discriminatory behaviour will have their membership terminated immediately. 3.2 Anti-Bullying: Bullying, harassment, aggressive behaviour, or intimidation towards other members, committee members, or venue staff is strictly prohibited. This extends to online interactions on WWS social media channels, forums, and during online events. 3.3 Respectful Debate: While we encourage lively discussion about whisky, personal attacks or "gatekeeping" behaviour will not be tolerated.

4. GDPR & Data Sharing (Specific Consent)

4.1 By joining the Welsh Whisky Society, you consent to the collection and processing of your personal data in accordance with current Data Protection laws. 4.2 Event Data Sharing: You specifically acknowledge and agree that to facilitate Society activities—including but not limited to online tastings (e.g., via Teams/Zoom), in-person festivals, and shared venue events—your name and contact details may be shared with: * Other members participating in the same interactive online session. * Partner venues or distilleries strictly for the purpose of guest list management and health & safety compliance during events. 4.3 By purchasing a membership or an event ticket, you agree to this necessary sharing of data to facilitate the event experience.

5. Responsible Drinking

5.1 The WWS promotes responsible drinking. Members attending in-person events must conduct themselves responsibly. The Society and host venues reserve the right to refuse service to any member who appears intoxicated.

6. Acceptance of Terms

6.1 By completing the registration process and paying the membership fee, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.

For any queries regarding these terms, please contact: admin@welshwhiskysociety.com

Returns & Refund Policy

Last Updated: January 2026

At the Welsh Whisky Society, we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. Whether you are buying exclusive Society merchandise or a bottle of Welsh whisky, we aim to ensure a smooth and fair returns process in accordance with UK consumer protection laws.

1. Your Right to Cancel (Change of Mind)

Under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, you have the right to cancel your order for physical goods for any reason within 14 days of receiving your items.

  • Notification: You must notify us of your wish to cancel within this 14-day period. You can do this by contacting us via our website or email.

  • Returning the Item: Once you have notified us, you have a further 14 days to send the goods back to us.

  • Condition: Items must be returned in their original, unopened, and unused condition with all original packaging and seals intact.

    • Note: We cannot accept returns of whisky bottles if the security seal has been broken or tampered with, unless the item is faulty.

  • Refund: We will issue a refund for the cost of the goods and the standard delivery charge (if you paid for it) within 14 days of receiving the returned items.

  • Return Shipping Cost: Unless the item is faulty or incorrect, you are responsible for the cost of return postage. We recommend using a tracked service, as we cannot be held responsible for items lost in transit.

2. Damaged, Faulty, or Incorrect Items

If your item arrives damaged, faulty, or is not what you ordered, you are protected under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

  • Right to Reject (First 30 Days): If an item is faulty or misdescribed, you have the legal right to reject it for a full refund (including delivery costs) within 30 days of delivery.

  • After 30 Days: If a fault appears after 30 days but within 6 months, we have the opportunity to repair or replace the item. If this is not possible, you may be entitled to a full or partial refund.

  • Damaged in Transit: If your package arrives clearly damaged, please inspect it immediately. If possible, sign for the delivery as "Damaged" and take photos of the packaging and the item. Contact us immediately so we can arrange a replacement or refund.

3. Exceptions to Returns

The following items are generally non-returnable unless faulty:

  • Perishable Goods: Items with a short shelf life.

  • Personalised Items: Goods that have been customised specifically for you (e.g., engraved bottles or merchandise).

  • Unsealed Items: Sealed goods that are not suitable for return due to health protection or hygiene reasons (e.g., opened food or drink containers) if they were unsealed after delivery.

4. How to Return an Item

To start a return, please follow these steps:

  1. Contact Us: Email us at [Insert Email Address] or use the [Contact Form] on our website. Please provide your:

    • Order Number

    • Name and Address

    • Reason for return

  2. Pack the Item: Securely pack the item in its original packaging to prevent damage during return transit.

  3. Post the Item: Send the package to the returns address provided by our support team.

    • Tip: Retain your proof of postage.

5. Refunds

Refunds will be processed to your original payment method. Please allow up to 14 days after we receive your return for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your bank or card issuer.

6. Memberships

Please note this policy applies to physical goods. Membership cancellations are governed by the terms agreed to at sign-up. Generally, if you cancel a membership within the 14-day cooling-off period, you are entitled to a refund, provided you have not used the membership benefits (e.g., booked a tour, claimed a discount, or received a welcome pack). If a welcome pack has been sent, it must be returned in new condition to receive a full refund.