The Co-op has launched a new partnership with social impact venture The Hacking Games in an effort to combat rising cybercrime and prevent future attacks by nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

The move comes after the retailer was targeted in a recent cyber attack, prompting a renewed focus on digital resilience and talent development. The initiative is designed to identify skilled young individuals with cyber capabilities and guide them into positive, ethical career paths in cybersecurity.

The Co-op said cyber threats are evolving at an “alarming” pace, and that prevention must go beyond technology alone. Supporting young people to put their digital skills to constructive use is seen as a long-term solution to a growing business risk.

Shirine Khoury-Haq, group chief executive at the Co-op, said the experience of being attacked made the issue personal. “We know first-hand what it feels like to be targeted by cybercrime. The disruption it causes, the pressure it puts on colleagues, and the impact on the communities we serve are significant,” she said.

“We can’t just hope it doesn’t happen again. Our members expect us to take a cooperative approach to the root cause, not just the symptom. Partnering with The Hacking Games allows us to reach young people early, give them real opportunities, and reduce risk through purpose-led investment in people.”

Fergus Hay, co-founder of The Hacking Games, said the partnership is about harnessing untapped potential. “There is an incredible amount of cyber talent out there, but many young people do not see a path into the industry. Some do not even realise their skills could be used for good,” he said.

“By working with the Co-op, we can show them a way forward and help build a generation of ethical hackers committed to making the digital world safer.”

Security Minister Dan Jarvis welcomed the initiative. “Cybercrime destroys lives. The criminals behind these acts put the public and the economy at risk. That is why we are taking decisive action to keep UK businesses and jobs safe,” he said.

For business owners, the Co-op’s approach underlines a growing awareness that cybersecurity is no longer just a matter of defence but of workforce strategy. Investing in ethical talent and skills development may offer a longer-term buffer against rising cyber threats.