Recent cyber attacks on Marks & Spencer and Co-op have exposed serious weaknesses in the food and beverage industry’s cybersecurity defenses. The incidents have left both retailers facing ongoing supply chain disruptions and website outages, with empty shelves and suspended online shopping.
Nearly a month after the attacks, both companies are still working to restore operations.
A Predictable Crisis
Security experts have long warned that the food and beverage sector is an easy target for hackers. Richard Werran from BSI explained that attackers have shifted their focus from banks and car manufacturers to the food sector, calling it “such a weak sector.”
Despite these warnings, companies have been slow to act. David Mudd, also from BSI, noted in March that many businesses prefer to invest in projects with guaranteed returns rather than spending on cybersecurity, where the benefits are not always visible until a breach occurs.
Unfortunately, those predictions have now come true. The recent attacks have forced both the industry and the government to reconsider their approach.
Government Calls for Action
In response to the breaches, Cabinet Minister Pat McFadden stressed the urgency of cybersecurity. Speaking at a government-organised meeting, he said: “What we have seen over the past couple of weeks should serve as a wake-up call for businesses and organisations. Cybersecurity is not a luxury but an absolute necessity.”
Surge in Cybersecurity Awareness
Following the attacks, there has been a sharp rise in interest in cybersecurity solutions. Business advisor Bionic reported a 320% increase in businesses seeking “cyber security support.” Additionally, Google searches for ‘cyber attack’ have jumped by 588% in the past month, showing a clear spike in public and industry concern.
Experts are now offering urgent advice to businesses looking to strengthen their defenses. Laura Court-Jones from Bionic recommended essential steps such as regular software updates, firewalls, antivirus software, and cybersecurity training for employees.
She also warned that small businesses are often more vulnerable due to weaker security systems, but the recent breaches show that even large organisations are at risk.
Insurance Sector Watching Closely
The cyber insurance industry is also reacting. Holly Waszak, head of cyber claims UK at Marsh, said insurers are paying close attention to cyber attacks in the retail sector. She noted that companies may soon be required to demonstrate minimum cybersecurity standards to qualify for insurance coverage.
A New Priority for Food & Beverage?
The attacks have made it clear that cybersecurity can no longer be ignored. With hackers targeting any available weakness, businesses in the food and beverage sector are now under pressure to invest in stronger security measures—not just for their protection, but to remain insurable and trusted by customers.
