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Coop Ensures Local Stock Amid Supply Shortages

  • markdarrenwilkinso
  • May 13
  • 2 min read

Channel Islands Coop Strengthens Local Sourcing Amid Ongoing Cyber-Attack Fallout


The Channel Islands Coop is turning to local producers and alternative supply routes to ease product shortages triggered by a cyber-attack on the UK-based Co-op Group, the retailer’s chief executive has confirmed.

Notices citing "supply chain issues beyond our control" have appeared in stores across Jersey and Guernsey in recent days, as customers face sparse shelves and delayed restocking.


Chief executive Mark Cox said the organisation is "actively securing alternative supplies – both locally and from other partners – to keep operations running as smoothly as possible" while UK systems are gradually restored. He added that availability should improve throughout the week.


The cyber-attack, which targeted the IT infrastructure of the UK Co-op Group, has led to widespread disruption. Hackers have claimed responsibility for stealing the data of over 20 million people, including employees and customers, though the Channel Islands Coop reports that no local data has been compromised.

The supermarket has expressed gratitude to its members and customers for their understanding and patience, pledging to restore full service as swiftly as possible.


Carl Walker, chair of the Jersey Consumer Council, acknowledged the knock-on effects of the disruption. “People are naturally shopping elsewhere when shelves are empty, so it’s putting added pressure on other stores too,” he said.

Walker noted that islanders have responded with their usual resilience. “It’s slim pickings everywhere for the time being, but we’re reassured that those supply chains are being restored as quickly as possible."


He compared the disruption to weather-related delays familiar to island communities, but warned of a growing digital threat. “This is the new storm on the horizon – these cyber attacks. They highlight just how deeply data, the internet, and digital systems are woven into our daily lives – even influencing what’s on our dinner tables.”


The UK Co-op Group continues to investigate the breach, while working to restore services. Meanwhile, Channel Islands Coop remains focused on keeping shelves stocked with the help of local suppliers and regional partners.

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