Several appeals for crates to be returned have now been made, the most recent being last year. The Dairy tried to track down 3,000 missing crates that it believed were being used by members of the public for storing tools and paint pots, amoung other items.

The Dairy has lamented the position it has now been forced into.

“We are now nearly 3,000 milk crates short which makes planning weekend and Bank Holiday production processes extremely challenging,” said Dave Domaille, Production Manager at Guernsey Dairy.

“The situation has reached a point where we are now insisting that our customers return the empty crates supplied to them before we can fulfil their next order. This is obviously impacting their businesses too as many retail outlets use the crates to store milk. We simply don’t have the surplus stock to operate differently. This is an ongoing issue and is impacting the Dairy operationally and financially.”

Pictured: Dairy Hand at Guernsey Dairy, Kieran Queripel.

Each crate costs £15 and is used to deliver milk to restaurants, supermarkets and shops. They remain the property of the States of Guernsey, with a clear message on the side:

“Property of Guernsey Dairy. Unlawful possession is an offence.”

“Each milk crate makes thousands of trips to and from shops with some lasting more than 20 years,” continued Mr Domaille.

“They are extremely strong and durable when allowed to do their job and are not removed from the milk delivery system for other purposes.

“If anyone has seen them while they are out and about, please can you get in touch by calling 01481 227777 and we will go and pick them up.”