Peter Green Chilled, a food distributor supplying major UK supermarkets Tesco and Aldi, has been the target of a ransomware attack. The Somerset-based company confirmed that the cyberattack last week prevented them from processing new fresh orders.
This attack follows a recent surge in cyber incidents across the retail food sector, with other major chains like Marks & Spencer and the Co-op recently affected by similar breaches.
Despite the disruption, Peter Green Chilled has been providing clients with regular updates and temporary solutions to maintain deliveries. Managing director Tom Binks assured that transport operations have continued without interruption during the incident.
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Ransomware attacks involve hackers infiltrating computer systems and encrypting files, demanding a ransom—often in cryptocurrency—in exchange for restoring access.
The impact on suppliers is significant. Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, founder of The Black Farmer brand, revealed he currently has approximately ten pallets of meat products stalled with the distributor, emphasizing the urgency as these perishable goods face potential spoilage.
Cybersecurity expert Tim Grieveson from ThingsRecon highlighted the broader risks, noting that supply chain cyberattacks disrupt not only digital information but also the physical movement of goods. Even short delays can have devastating consequences, particularly for perishable items like fresh food and pharmaceuticals.
Peter Green Chilled has yet to provide further details as investigations continue.