The Tesco store in Stornoway said it has stopped give customers shopping baskets as they are being stolen.
The supermarket has almost run out after a surge in thefts.
A notice on its front door says: “We are very sorry to say that we are unable to provide our customers with shopping baskets due to them being taken from the store.
“We are losing approx 15 baskets a week due to theft.”
The shop said: “We have more baskets on order but they take six weeks to arrive.”
The shop has also launched an “no questions asked” amnesty, pleading with islanders to return baskets they have taken home.
The notice said: “If anyone has a basket, can you please return them to the store so we are not inconveniencing our customers further.
A Tesco spokesman said: “The overwhelming majority of customers diligently return their baskets after shopping.
“To make sure we can offer everyone a basket, we’ve ordered extra, but as we wait for them to arrive, we’ve asked the community to help by returning any they may have.”
Some people believe the baskets were being stolen by people peeved at having to pay for a carrier bag.
One shopper wrote on social media: “I've seen people just sticking them in the boot and going instead of buying a bag.”
An islander said the baskets were: “Cheaper than a bag.”
Another posted: “I was wondering where the baskets where. It’s annoying not been able to get a basket especially if you just need a few things like milk and bread as the trolleys are no use. Baskets should not be allowed to leave the store.”
A local resident said: “It seems to be since the introduction of charging for carrier bags.
Others suggested they could be taken for other reasons: “Have seen a few with flowers in them. So sad. Baskets or pots for flowers don’t cost that much.”
Tesco urge customers to return stolen baskets
17 April 2018