M&S halts meal deals amid ongoing cyber attack disruption

The impact of a ransomware attack continues to plague M&S, with meal deal suspensions and operational challenges expected to cost the retailer millions in lost orders.

Marks & Spencer has temporarily suspended some of its popular meal deal offers as the retailer continues to grapple with the fallout from a serious cyber attack.

Signs in stores, including at major transport hubs such as Victoria Station, explain that availability issues have made it impossible to fulfil certain promotions, and ask customers for patience while the company works through the disruption.

Instead of offering its usual lunchtime combinations and dine-in meal deals priced between £6 and £15, M&S is facing stock shortfalls due to the hack, which is now in its third week.

The attack is reportedly linked to a group of teenage hackers using ransomware tactics, locking computer systems and demanding payment for their release.

The breach has already caused significant operational challenges, with fears internally that the disruption could drag on for weeks. Sources suggest the financial impact could run into tens of millions in lost orders, as systems remain frozen and supply chains struggle to recover.

Meal deal suspensions are the latest sign of the broader strain the retailer is under as it scrambles to restore normal service.

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