What: Co-op launches 25% discount promotion for members as a gesture of appreciation following major cyber attack disruption.

Why it is important: The initiative demonstrates how retailers can maintain customer loyalty and rebuild trust through transparent communication and tangible appreciation measures after significant operational disruptions.

The Co-op has launched a strategic customer appreciation initiative offering members 25% off purchases over £40, following the disruption caused by a recent cyber attack. The week-long promotion, available to both existing and new members, serves as a gesture of gratitude to customers who supported the business during its technical difficulties. Matt Hood, Co-op Food's managing director, has confirmed that the company is approaching full recovery from the cyber incident, with stores returning to normal operations. The retailer anticipates strong summer sales, projecting to sell over half a million barbecue meat products, 1.1 million bottles of chilled wines, 2.3 million bottles of beer, and 128 tonnes of ice cubes. This response highlights the Co-op's community-focused approach and its commitment to maintaining customer relationships through challenging periods, while emphasising its 180-year heritage and dedication to running "the best small shops in the UK.

IADS Notes: According to research from May 2025, the Co-op cyber attack exposed data of up to 20 million customers, following a pattern of significant retail sector breaches. Industry data from April 2025 revealed that ransomware accounts for 30% of retail security incidents, with average losses reaching £1.4 million per attack. The incident contributed to a broader transformation in the retail sector's approach to cybersecurity, leading to a 10% increase in cyber insurance premiums. However, the Co-op's transparent crisis management and customer appreciation strategy aligns with successful approaches seen at other retailers, where maintaining customer trust through open communication and tangible benefits has proven effective in recovery from cyber incidents.

Co-op launches promotion to thank customers for support after cyber attack