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Do Milkmen Still Exist? A Day in the Life of Your Local Milkman

A question we often hear is: Do milkmen still exist? And yes, they absolutely do. In fact, they’re making a bit of a comeback.

For many people, the gentle hum of the electric milk float and the clinking of glass bottles as the milkman made his early rounds will be nostalgic sounds that take them back to childhood.

Today’s milkmen have evolved to meet the needs of the modern customer, but they’re still the same trustworthy pillars of the local community. Even better, they now deliver fruit, vegetables, baked goods and pantry essentials too.

The History and Evolution of the UK Milkman

In the late 1800s, the first official milk rounds began in the UK, with the Milkmen driving horse-drawn carts to transport fresh dairy from farms to homes.

The Express Dairy Company introduced the first electric milk float in 1932, revolutionising milk deliveries and allowing the service to expand to new areas. From then on, local Milkmen were a staple part of everyday life and a lifeline for fresh milk.

Supermarkets briefly pushed the service into decline, but a renewed focus on sustainability, community and convenience has seen the local Milkman return to relevance. And we couldn’t be happier about it!

 

Why the Milkman Still Matters Today

 

From organic produce to our innovative cool bags and boxes, the modern Milkman looks a little different to the horse-drawn carts of the past. Milkmen today play a vital role in reducing single-use plastics, sustainable living and sourcing from local farms and producers.

One thing remains the same, though: you can’t beat waking up to fresh milk waiting on your doorstep, ready for your morning coffee or breakfast shake.

 

Meet Your Local Milkman

 

A Day in the Life – From Dawn to Doorstep

Life as a Milkman starts in the early hours. While most people are still soundly asleep, Milkmen are busy loading produce into their floats. By 4am, deliveries are underway – quiet roads and little to no traffic mean Milkmen can ensure their deliveries are always on time.

Typically, milk appears on doorsteps as if by magic. But early birds might get the pleasure of catching the Milkman doing his rounds. If you do, always say hello! Our friendly Milkmen love nothing more than greeting customers.

Favourite Products on the Round

Ask any local Milkman and they’ll be able to tell you that every household has favourites. Organic milk in glass bottles is still a best-seller, but seasonal fruit and vegetable boxes and even pastries are becoming household staples.

We asked a few of our local Milk & More Milkmen what their favourite products are:

Janet: Nothing beats the rich and creamy taste of the Channel Island 'Gold Foil' milk. A favourite in my household as a special treat or for baking creamy desserts.

Daryl: I can’t get enough of Milk & More’s fresh juices – the grapefruit is my favourite for a zingy morning drink.

Ian: As a keen cook, the premium organic vegetable box has been a game-changer in my kitchen. I love the seasonal surprise every time I open a box!

Customer Stories and Connections

Not only do Milkmen still exist, but they’re also important members of the community. Our drivers share stories of delivering to the same families for up to three generations and even helping an elderly woman when she left the house in a muddle in the middle of the night.

Check out the winners of our 2024 Community Heroes award for more stories of local Milkmen going the extra mile.

 

The Future of the Milkman

 

Sustainability and Freshness on Your Doorstep

Eco-friendly floats, reusable bottles and locally-sourced produce are just some of the ways that the Milk & More Milkman have adapted to modern values. By reducing food miles and supporting local suppliers, the service is as important today as it was in Victorian times – only now it is greener and more technologically advanced.

How to Find and Support Your Local Milkman

Want to meet your local Milkman? Discover our range of fresh, seasonal produce and enjoy the tradition of doorstep delivery with a modern twist. Order online today.