A ransomware attack has struck Peter Green Chilled, a UK-based logistics company supplying major supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Aldi, in the latest UK food supply cyber attack to threaten the country’s retail chain.
The Somerset-based distributor confirmed the attack occurred on Wednesday evening, with internal systems encrypted and order processing temporarily suspended. Despite the breach, the company’s transport operations have continued without disruption, according to managing director Tom Binks.
Ransomware cripples order processing
In an internal email seen by the BBC, Peter Green Chilled told clients it had fallen victim to a ransomware attack and that no new orders would be processed on Thursday. Orders prepared before the breach were still dispatched.
The company is among the smaller players in the chilled food logistics sector but serves key supermarket clients. One such customer, Black Farmer founder Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, warned that delays could lead to significant losses: “Something like ten pallets of meat products are now at risk of being thrown away,” he said. “We’re talking thousands of packs, and the clock is ticking.”
Rising wave of cyber attacks on the food sector
Cyber attacks on UK food logistics have surged in recent months. While larger firms like Lineage, GXO, and Culina have the resources to fend off threats, smaller operators often lack the same protection.
Phil Pluck, Chief Executive of the Cold Chain Federation, said there has been a “huge increase” in ransomware attacks across food storage and distribution. “About half of the food consumed in the UK goes through the cold chain sector. Hackers know how critical this infrastructure is to keep supermarket shelves stocked,” he noted.
Mr Pluck added that at least ten member firms of his federation have been targeted in the past year alone, although many prefer to keep breaches out of public view. “Cyber attacks are hugely underreported because companies lose control of their operations and face restrictions from police and insurers.”
Retailers at risk through supply chains
The growing frequency of cyber threats has also highlighted the vulnerability of retail supply chains. Co-op and Marks & Spencer were both recent targets of ransomware groups, leading to stock shortages and customer data breaches.
Sian John, CTO at cyber security firm NCC Group, warned that these attacks are not limited to major brands. “The weak spot in retail is often the supply chain,” she said. “These threats affect not just high-profile retailers but also the smaller firms that keep their shelves stocked.”
As the UK food supply cyber attack trend continues, experts urge the industry to invest in stronger cyber defences, particularly among smaller logistics and distribution firms.
