Cyber Attack Hits M&S Food Sales by 9.1%: Digital Shock Strikes Retail Giant
Londen, woensdag, 25 juni 2025.
A cyber attack in April severely impacted Marks & Spencer, causing a significant slowdown in food sales growth. NielsenIQ data reveals a decline from 14.7% to 9.1% in sales growth, caused by disrupted logistics and reduced product availability. The attack forced M&S to halt online clothing orders and take other systems offline, resulting in increased waste and logistical costs. The company estimates the financial impact at approximately £300 million in lost business profits, a substantial blow to the British retail giant that exposes the vulnerability of digital infrastructure.
Cyber Attack Disrupts M&S Food Sales
The cyber attack in April deeply impacted Marks & Spencer, resulting in a significant decline in food sales growth. According to NielsenIQ data, sales growth dropped -38.095 percent, from 14.7% to 9.1% in the twelve weeks to 14 June [1]. The attack forced the company to halt online clothing orders and take other systems offline, leading to reduced food availability and higher logistical costs [2].
Financial Impact
M&S expects the cyber attack will cost the company approximately £300 million (€352.25 million) in lost business profits [2]. Despite the disruption, the retailer’s market share remained almost stable, with a slight increase of 10 basis points to 3.7% year-on-year, albeit lower than the 3.8% from the previous monthly report [1].
Operational Consequences
After a 46-day interruption, M&S resumed accepting online clothing orders on 10 June [2]. The cyber attack resulted in increased waste and logistical complexity, demonstrating the operational efficiency challenges in the food division [1].