**Empty Shelves at Welsh Co-op Stores as Cyber Attack Sparks ‘Cash Only’ Policies**
Supermarkets across the United Kingdom are facing turmoil after a cyber attack disrupted operations in several Co-op branches, resulting in empty shelves and a sudden switch to cash-only payments in some locations, including parts of Wales.
The incident, which was described by Co-op’s chief executive, Shirine Khoury-Haq, as a “highly sophisticated” assault on the supermarket’s IT systems, has left many customers unable to pay by card and encountering fewer products on display. The attack comes amid a spate of similar security breaches targeting prominent retailers, with both Marks and Spencer and Harrods having recently been affected by cyber threats.
According to communication sent out to Co-op customers on Tuesday, Khoury-Haq detailed the extent of the disruption, admitting that the business was experiencing “significant disruption” and noting that the full impact of the cyber attack was still being assessed. As part of their response, Co-op took the precaution of shutting down certain IT systems in hopes of limiting the damage and securing sensitive information.
Despite the swift action taken by the retailer to limit the fallout, the hack did lead to unauthorised access to a limited amount of member data, which Khoury-Haq characterised as “extremely distressing” for both customers and staff. She issued a formal apology, stressing the Co-op’s commitment to safeguarding its members and reiterating that efforts to resolve the incident were ongoing.
The consequences of the attack were immediately visible in many branches, including those in Wales. Some Welsh Co-op stores, such as in the Llandaff North area of Cardiff, were photographed with shelves containing noticeably fewer items than usual. Elsewhere, in Manchester, at least three stores resorted to displaying ‘cash only’ signs after payment systems failed, and contactless transactions were reported as non-functional in certain other locations.
While most of Co-op’s network of around 2,300 shops are reportedly able to still process card transactions, affected branches have struggled to maintain normal operations. A Co-op spokesperson acknowledged the situation, stating: “Some of our stores might not have all of their usual products available and we would like to say sorry to our members and customers if this is the case in their local store. We are working around the clock to reduce disruption and resume deliveries.”
The spokesperson went on to thank staff, customers, and suppliers for their patience in the face of such an unexpected challenge. The company assured the public that they are “working tirelessly” to get things back to normal, liaising with authorities as investigations into the breach continue. Such events highlight both the vulnerability of essential retail infrastructure to cyber threats and the knock-on effects these incidents can have on local communities.
Meanwhile, problems associated with cyber attacks are being felt far beyond the Co-op. Marks and Spencer has also encountered operational headaches linked to hacking activity, with supply levels for its well-known meal deal offers being inconsistently available in some locations. An M&S spokesperson stated: “Customers can still buy meal deals in our rail station stores but there are pockets of availability for some items,” before adding that the company is working hard to restore full stock levels.
Cyber attacks against retailers have become an increasing concern in recent years, prompting ongoing debates about the adequacy of digital defences employed by large high street names. For consumers, these incidents serve as stark reminders of the potential fragility of modern payment and supply chain systems.
As efforts continue to restore services and investigate the circumstances behind the security breach, customers are advised to check with their local Co-op branches for the most up-to-date information on store services and product availability. The retailer has reiterated their gratitude for customer loyalty and patience during this period of disruption.
The full impact of these attacks may take some time to quantify, but for now, shoppers are adjusting to the temporary return of cash payments and a more limited shopping choice—a situation that retailers hope to resolve as swiftly as possible.