Marks & Spencer has relaunched its click and collect service following a cyber attack that disrupted its operations. The supermarket had to halt online orders and experienced issues with contactless payments in stores after being targeted over Easter weekend in April. M&S recently reopened online ordering and now confirms the availability of its click and collect option, allowing customers to purchase items online for in-store pickup.
Additionally, M&S announced the full functionality of its Sparks app, enabling shoppers to utilize personalized discounts and benefits. The restoration of services follows a state pension warning for individuals within specific age groups. Customers are advised to remain vigilant if contacted by anyone claiming to represent M&S and to change their passwords if they haven’t accessed the Sparks app post-attack.
The cyber breach is anticipated to result in approximately £300 million in losses for M&S. Despite this setback, the company’s annual profits surged by more than 20% to £875.5 million before the incident, marking its highest profits in over 15 years due to successful restructuring efforts. CEO Stuart Machin expressed confidence in full operational recovery by August during the retailer’s annual general meeting.
Machin also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of cybercrime investigators and highlighted the significance of cooperation with industry peers like Co-op and Harrods. M&S extended gratitude to its employees by increasing staff discounts and extending benefits to over 2,500 contractors. The company continues to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice and emphasizes the importance of seeking support during cyber incidents.
