ROSBURG, Ore. (KOIN 6) — Umpqua Dairy says they want their stolen milk crates back, and it’s no laughing matter, according to the company.
“Taking Umpqua Dairy or other branded milk crates is a crime,” the company says in a press release.
The company says, each year, 20 million crates disappear industry-wide because of theft. The cost to manufacture a crate is about $4, according to Umpqua Dairy. The company says that milk crate theft is an $80 million problem.
A company spokesperson said that the “needless expense” affects the cost of goods, employee jobs and ultimately the price of milk.
“Umpqua Dairy does not sell or give away our orange milk crates. So, if you have one, it was stolen or sold illegally,” the company says.
According to the company, prosecutors could levy charges of second-degree theft against a person in Oregon accused of stealing a milk crate. If convicted, that person could face up to one year in jail and or a fine of $2,500.
The company is asking the public to turn over milk crates. For return locations visit www.umpquadairy.com. The company will also investigate information about missing milk crates. Tips can be provided by calling 541-672-2638 ext. 120.
The company says they have a “no questions asked” policy.