Southport SPAR stores closed as cyber attack hits national chain

SPAR stores in Southport and across the country remain closed for a second day after a cyber attack affected the national chain’s till systems.

OTS reporters saw notices on several SPAR shops around the town including Birkdale village and Moss Lane / High Park Road.

Franchiser and operating company James Hall & Co says that 330 SPAR stores remain closed across the North of England. A number of stores remain open on a ‘cash only basis’.

A statement from the company read: “James Hall & Company are currently aware of an online attack on its IT system.

“This has not affected all SPAR stores across the North of England, but a number have been impacted over the past 24 hours and we are working to resolve this situation as quickly as possible.

“It is currently impacting stores’ ability to process card payments meaning that a number of SPAR stores are currently closed to shoppers or only taking cash payments.”