Marks and Spencer Offers 20% Discount to Irish Shoppers Amid Online Store Reopening

Marks and Spencer has launched a 20% discount for Irish customers as it prepares to restore its online shopping services following a significant cyber attack last year. Although the retailer’s UK website resumed click-and-collect orders, Irish shoppers are still unable to make purchases online. The company has indicated that a full return of services for Ireland is anticipated “soon.”

As a gesture of appreciation for customer patience, Marks and Spencer is offering the temporary discount on fashion and home purchases in Irish stores until August 20, 2023. The promotion is available through the M&S app from August 14 to August 20. John Lyttle, Managing Director of Fashion, Home and Beauty, expressed gratitude to Irish customers, stating, “To our valued Irish customers, thank you for your patience as we continue to work hard behind the scenes to restore our services to you.”

The retailer halted online orders after it was targeted during the Easter weekend in April 2023. The cyber attack not only disrupted the online shopping experience but also affected contactless payments in stores. As a result, Marks and Spencer temporarily shut down part of its IT system. Customer data, including names, email addresses, and dates of birth, was compromised, although no card or payment details were stolen.

In the wake of the cyber incident, CEO Stuart Machin issued an apology to customers, stating, “I’m writing to let you know that over the last few days M&S has been managing a cyber incident. To protect you and the business, it was necessary to temporarily make some small changes to our store operations, and I am sincerely sorry if you experienced any inconvenience.”

Shoppers are advised to remain vigilant against possible phishing attempts from individuals claiming to represent Marks and Spencer. Customers who have not yet logged into the Sparks app are encouraged to change their passwords as a precaution. The financial impact of the cyber attack is estimated at approximately £300 million (around €350 million).

In a recent update, Machin informed shareholders that the company expects to have operations fully restored by August 2023. During the retailer’s annual general meeting, he noted, “Since these attacks took place, specialist NCA cybercrime investigators have been working at pace, and the investigation remains one of the Agency’s highest priorities.”

Machin highlighted the importance of collaboration among businesses in responding to cyber threats, thanking Marks and Spencer, Co-op, and Harrods for their support in ongoing investigations. He emphasized that “cyber attacks can be hugely disruptive for businesses,” and encouraged future victims to seek assistance from law enforcement as part of the reporting process.

As Marks and Spencer works to restore its online services for Irish customers, the retailer remains committed to ensuring a secure shopping environment while enhancing customer experience across its stores.