United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI), a leading grocery wholesaler, has resumed processing orders online after a cyberattack brought its e-commerce platform to a halt in mid-June. The company made significant progress towards safely restoring its electronic ordering systems, which will enable it to serve customers who rely on the system for their orders.
However, the disruption caused inventory shortages and logistical challenges for some retailers that relied heavily on UNFI’s delivery services. Darlings Grocery, a natural foods retailer in Wisconsin, had to turn to alternative suppliers, including Mason Brothers and Sysco, to keep its shelves stocked.
Gilpin Matthews, co-owner of Darlings, expressed concerns about the impact of the cyberattack on his business, saying that it would “empty shelves” if customers couldn’t access their preferred products. Other retailers, such as Orcas Food Co-op in Washington, also experienced inventory shortages and had to rely on third-party suppliers.
Despite the challenges, some retailers were able to mitigate the effects by networking with other organizations and tapping into local and fresh suppliers. Charley Family Shop ‘n Save in Pennsylvania reached out to the National Grocers Association and found alternative wholesalers, such as MDI, to help it stay stocked.
The cyberattack also impacted UNFI’s ability to serve some of its largest customers, including Whole Foods Market. However, pharmacies operated by Cub grocery chain are again able to fill prescriptions following the disruptions.
Source: https://www.grocerydive.com/news/unfi-cyberattack-response-supply-chain-grocery-wholesale/750831