How Country Road Group strengthened cyber security while supporting growth
As cyber security threats grew more sophisticated and relentless, Country Road Group (CRG) realised that continuing to fully manage security in-house became increasingly unsustainable. They needed a solution that not only secured their digital infrastructure but also allowed their internal teams to focus on business growth. CRG turned to The Missing Link for comprehensive support, trusting their expertise to ensure continuous protection, compliance, and preparedness for future challenges.
The challenge: Managing cyber security at scale
CRG has an expansive retail footprint, which brings the complexities of cyber security threats. Despite having a dedicated IT team, staying ahead of the evolving threat landscape and meeting strict compliance standards like PCI DSS proved increasingly difficult. Without 24x7 monitoring, a single undetected breach could result in severe disruptions, data theft, or reputational damage. CRG recognised the need for an external partner who could provide round-the-clock protection and strategic oversight.
The solution: A layered security approach
The Missing Link worked closely with CRG to design a comprehensive solution that met their unique operational requirements. By combining MDR, penetration testing, and expert advisory services, they implemented a multi-layered defence strategy that protected all aspects of CRG’s business.
MDR services
Real-time threat monitoring through The Missing Link’s Security Operations Centre (SOC) ensured early detection and response to potential risks.
Penetration testing
Regular tests proactively identified vulnerabilities in CRG’s systems, allowing for timely mitigation and ensuring compliance with standards like PCI DSS.
Strategic advisory
The Missing Link provided expert input on security tools, trends and alternative approaches, supporting CRG’s internal planning and helping ensure decisions were informed and forward-looking.
Why CRG chose The Missing Link
CRG’s decision to deepen its partnership with The Missing Link was based on years of successful collaboration on smaller projects. As they looked to elevate their security program and align with best-in-class practices, CRG turned to a trusted partner who already understood their business and industry.
Several factors made The Missing Link the right choice:
Round-the-clock protection
The Missing Link’s MDR services provided CRG with 24x7 threat monitoring, meaningfully reducing the time it took to detect and neutralise potential risks.
Proactive penetration testing
Through regular penetration tests, CRG could stay ahead of vulnerabilities, with detailed remediation plans that ensured ongoing resilience.
Expert advisory and product reselling
The Missing Link's role as a trusted advisor ensured CRG had access to cutting-edge security technologies at competitive prices, ensuring they invested only in solutions that added real value.
Local support with industry insight
CRG valued The Missing Link’s local presence and long-tenured team, which provided consistent, knowledgeable service tailored to the retail industry’s specific needs.
The results: Faster detection and stronger resilience
Since partnering with The Missing Link, CRG has seen measurable improvements in their security operations, contributing to greater overall program efficiency. CRG has observed:
Faster threat detection
With 24x7 MDR in place, response times to security threats have decreased significantly, reducing the likelihood of operational disruptions.
Minimised downtime
Proactive vulnerability testing and rapid incident response have helped manage downtime, allowing CRG to focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences without worrying about cyber threats.
Strengthened security posture
CRG’s enhanced security framework has enabled them to confidently meet compliance requirements and protect critical business data.
“The Missing Link has delivered with a positive and practical attitude in every engagement we have had with them. The MDR team continuously removes noise from the environment while increasing coverage. The Penetration Testing team provides actionable recommendations and practical trade-offs in their findings. I know that if I call the team I am going to get insights that help inform our direction.”
— Jerome Brown, Head of IT: Cyber Security & Risk, Country Road Group
Addressing retail-specific challenges
Retailers like CRG face their own set of security challenges, including compliance with PCI DSS, and the operational need to minimise downtime during peak trading periods. Even brief disruptions can impact sales and customer experience. The Missing Link’s proactive MDR and SOC services help mitigate these risks by identifying and responding to threats early. This approach has helped CRG maintain compliance and ensure business continuity during critical retail windows.
A strategic partnership
What began as a series of point solutions has developed into a deeper, more consultative relationship. The Missing Link now works closely with CRG’s internal teams to provide input on specific elements of the cyber security roadmap and guidance on emerging risks. Their support helps inform key decisions and allows CRG to stay focused on overall strategic direction, while continuing to strengthen its security capabilities across the business.
Looking ahead
As the retail landscape evolves and cyber threats become increasingly advanced, CRG is confident that its partnership with The Missing Link will continue to be an important part of the security program. Together, they are prepared to tackle future challenges, ensuring compliance and business continuity during critical periods.
For retail businesses looking to strengthen their cyber security, The Missing Link’s expertise, reliability, and proactive approach make it a strong partner for long-term success.
