A severe cyberattack on Peter Green Chilled, a leading chilled logistics supplier for UK supermarkets, has disrupted operations across major retailers including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, and Marks & Spencer.

The distributor informed clients that it could not process orders made from May 15, 2025, due to the ransomware attack that began the day before.

This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in the supply chain, as Peter Green Chilled confirmed that the attack significantly affected its operations and customers.

Concerns have been raised by clients such as Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, founder of The Black Farmer, who reported having 10 pallets of meat products stranded, risking spoilage and financial losses.

Experts are urging for a more proactive approach from the National Cyber Security Centre to enhance awareness and intelligence sharing regarding cyber threats.

While the UK Government's recent £16 million investment in cybersecurity is a positive step, further support is deemed necessary to combat the growing complexity of cyber threats, particularly ransomware.

This attack follows a previous incident involving Reed Boardall, underscoring ongoing vulnerabilities in the cold storage and transport industry.

Charlotte Wilson of Check Point Software emphasized the need for stronger government intervention to protect the food supply chain, which is increasingly targeted by cybercriminals.

Experts are calling for the British government to adopt a more aggressive stance against ransomware, as attacks have increased annually over the past five years.

Cybersecurity has become critical for survival in the retail industry, as businesses expand their online platforms and face increasing exposure to threats.

The reliance on just-in-time logistics exacerbates the pressure on retailers to respond swiftly to disruptions, often leading to ransom payments to avoid stock shortages.

With approximately half of the food consumed in the UK relying on cold chain logistics, the sector remains a prime target for hackers seeking ransom payments.