JLR cyber attack threatens West Midlands supplier jobs and puts industry on edge

Britain’s automotive supply chain is facing disruption after a significant cyber attack paralysed Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) global operations. Webasto, a key supplier of glass roofs based in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, has temporarily halted its factory and begun laying off staff. This move comes as JLR’s production lines remain inactive, directly impacting hundreds of suppliers dependent on consistent demand.

Webasto, which employs 350 workers and supplies components for Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery models, has warned the fate of its Birmingham site could be decided within weeks if JLR’s shutdown continues. The cyber attack has brought JLR’s manufacturing to a near standstill for almost three weeks, stalling output by approximately 1,000 vehicles daily. With invoice payments missed and workers sent home, the knock-on effect is being felt throughout the supply chain.

The crisis has prompted calls for government intervention. Industry leaders, along with union officials and regional politicians, have urged ministers to provide urgent support for affected businesses, suggesting measures such as a furlough scheme to protect skilled jobs. Car industry insiders caution that letting suppliers fail would damage the wider UK automotive landscape, given the overlap in suppliers across luxury brands.

While JLR is preparing for a “controlled restart” and has established a helpline for suppliers, there is no indication of direct financial support for the companies most affected. Some staff at partner businesses have already been told to sign up for Universal Credit as their pay is slashed or eliminated altogether. Both Labour and Conservative leaders in the West Midlands have highlighted the critical role of JLR in sustaining the regional economy, backing calls for decisive action from the government.

Ministers have stated they remain in regular contact with JLR and are monitoring the situation, but direct assistance for suppliers has yet to materialise. The government’s cyber experts are working with JLR to resolve the situation, but concerns persist that delays in support could have lasting repercussions for both skilled workers and the competitive standing of the UK automotive sector. The coming weeks will test the government’s resolve and the resilience of the businesses underpinning the nation’s renowned car industry.