Retailers are operating in an environment where disruption is no longer occasional, it’s constant. From geopolitical instability and supplier volatility to cyber threats targeting payment systems, stock platforms and logistics networks, the pressure on retail operations has never been higher.

Today’s retail supply chains are global, digitally connected, and heavily reliant on third-party partners making them both a competitive advantage and a growing point of risk.

• Cyber incidents are now the #1 global business risk, with retail among the most targeted sectors
• Retail accounted for nearly a quarter of all ransomware attacks globally, driven by high transaction volumes and sensitive customer data
• 30% of breaches now originate via third parties, including suppliers, logistics providers, and technology partners
• Even a short disruption can result in lost sales, stock shortages, and lasting customer churn

In a world of always-on commerce, downtime isn’t just operational, it’s reputational.

What this session will cover

This webinar explores how retailers can strengthen resilience across their supply chain and security posture, using real-world examples and practical strategies.

We’ll look at:

• Where supply chain and third-party risks most commonly impact retail operations
• How cyber threats are evolving across ecommerce platforms, POS systems, and logistics networks
• Why supply chain security is now a board-level priority for leading retailers
• How AI and data-driven insights can help detect risks earlier and maintain operational continuity

Key takeaways

By the end of this session, you’ll be able to:

• Identify high-risk points in your supplier and partner ecosystem – Understand where vulnerabilities typically emerge from overseas manufacturing through to last-mile delivery and digital platforms
• Reduce exposure to disruption – Learn practical steps to strengthen supplier assurance, improve visibility, and build contingency into your operations
• Strengthen governance and accountability – See what effective security and supply chain oversight looks like at a leadership level in retail organisations
• Respond faster with AI-driven insights – Discover how AI can support early threat detection, automate risk analysis, and enable quicker, more confident decision-making

Why this matters for retailers

Retail operates on tight margins, real-time demand, and customer expectations that leave little room for disruption.

A single incident  whether a supplier failure, cyber attack, or logistics delay can quickly translate into:

• Empty shelves and stock imbalances
• Delayed fulfilment and failed delivery SLAs
• Lost revenue during peak trading periods
• Erosion of customer trust and brand reputation

With many retailers relying on complex global sourcing models, exposure to risk is increasing, particularly when combined with rising costs, supply instability, and expanding digital ecosystems.

At the same time, ransomware is now involved in nearly half of reported breaches, making the operational impact immediate and highly visible to customers.

This session focuses on how retail leaders can take practical, actionable steps to:

• Secure their extended supply chain
• Maintain continuity during disruption
• Use AI and automation to stay ahead of emerging threats

So your business can continue to trade, fulfil, and serve customers  even under pressure.

Meet the Speakers...

Claire Connor

Enterprise Account Executive

Claire Connor is a Commercial Account Executive at ANS and a Women in Tech Ambassador, passionate about driving gender diversity and making technology accessible. After entering tech later in her career, she uses her unique perspective to help businesses leverage AI and digital solutions while empowering women to thrive in the industry. The statistics are clear: only 1 in 5 tech workers in the UK are women, and up to 60,000 leave their roles every year. Claire is determined to help change that, one conversation and one opportunity at a time.

Simon Chilcott

Manufacturing & Retail Industry Lead at ANS

Simon Chilcott has nearly 8 years of dedicated service at ANS. As the Manufacturing Industry Lead, Simon has been at the forefront of driving innovation and excellence within the manufacturing landscape.

Mark Johnson

Head of Pre-Sales: Security at ANS

Mark has over 30 years’ experience in the IT and networking industry. With a background managing highly secure mobile networks for the Armed forces, to owning his own business, Mark joined ANS 8 years ago to take responsibility for building and delivering ANS’ suite of connectivity & Security solutions which include Azure Sentinel, SD WAN, SASE, Cloud and Multi-cloud architectures.