Bakers Basco is taking a firm stance against the rising issue of the illegal sale of bread trays and delivery equipment on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and eBay. As the UK’s leading provider of returnable transit packaging (RTP) for the bakery industry, Bakers Basco relies on these reusable trays to transport bread safely and sustainably across the country. Unfortunately, the online sale of these trays—clearly marked with the company’s logo—has become an alarming trend.
With over 2,800 trays and 386 dollies being sold illegally over the past year, this practice not only disrupts the bakery supply chain but also undermines environmental efforts. These trays, designed for durability and reuse, play a key role in minimising plastic waste. The misuse of this equipment adds unnecessary strain to an industry already focused on sustainability.
Bakers Basco is ramping up efforts to track down offenders, urging social media platforms to take this issue seriously and implement stricter controls. The company is also appealing to the public to stop participating in the illegal sale and misuse of its equipment to help protect both the supply chain and the environment.
Bakers Basco is a joint venture set up in 2006 by five of the UK’s leading plant bakers, including Allied Bakeries, Fine Lady Bakeries, Frank Roberts & Sons, Hovis and Warburtons - representing more than 55% of the bakery market in the UK - to buy, manage and police the use of a standard basket for the delivery of bread to retailers and wholesalers.
Our current pool of equipment includes approximately four million baskets and 500,000 heavy-duty wheeled dollies, which are used by bakers to deliver bread to their customers on a daily basis. A cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solution, our bakery equipment is custom designed, sturdy, reusable and recyclable, contributing in a positive way to the Circular Economy, as part of our commitment to reduce our impact on the environment.
Bread basket theft (or conversion) is the Achilles’ heel of the baking industry. It’s an issue that has plagued bakers for many years - with typical losses in excess of 60% and, in extreme cases, in excess of 100%.
As we move in to 2025, the food logistics industry faces pivotal challenges and
opportunities. Reflecting on the strides made last year, I can confidently say that agility, innovation and sustainability remain at the core of success. At Bakers Basco, we are committed to navigating this evolving landscape with purpose and foresight.
Economic pressures continue to shape our industry. Rising costs, from fuel prices to inflation, demand efficient strategies. At Bakers Basco, we've embraced cost-effective technologies to streamline operations and reinvest in resilience. Managing expenses without compromising service quality is more than a goal - it’s our commitment to supporting our members and customers alike.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of our mission. We’re proud of our reusable transit packaging solutions, like our bread baskets and dollies, which reduce waste while delivering long-term savings. In 2025, we’re doubling down on these efforts with advanced tracking technology, ensuring these assets remain in circulation and contribute to a thriving circular economy.
With regulatory changes on the horizon, including the Extended Producer Responsibility scheme and Plastic Packaging Tax, we advocate for practical solutions that benefit both businesses and the environment. Thoughtful implementation and improved recycling infrastructure will be game-changers and we’re ready to lead the charge.
Looking ahead, we’ll continue driving awareness for sustainable practices through impactful campaigns and cross-industry collaboration. Together, we can build a resilient, forward-thinking food logistics sector.
- Paul Empson, General Manager, Bakers Basco
Bakers Basco
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