Police in Scotland hunt thieves who stole bright orange lorry containing 41,000 bottles of Irn-Bru
A bright orange lorry carrying 41,000 bottles of Irn-Bru was stolen from a depot in Cumbernauld, prompting a police investigation and an appeal for information. The vehicle was later seen in Cumbria, and the theft has drawn attention partly because its distinctive branding could make it difficult to conceal.
The haul comprised 26 pallets of regular and zero-sugar 500ml bottles, valued at almost £30,000. Irn-Bru said the drinks would fill 250 bathtubs, while Police Scotland said the trailer was taken shortly before 6pm on Sunday, 27 September. The article also recalls a separate March theft of 413,793 KitKats from a lorry travelling through Europe.
- Thieves stole an orange Irn-Bru lorry in Cumbernauld.
- It carried 41,000 bottles worth almost £30,000.
- Police say the vehicle was later spotted in Cumbria.
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Irn-Bru is a Scottish fizzy drink brand with distinctive orange branding that has been popular in Scotland for over a century. On 27 September, a lorry painted in the brand's signature bright orange colour and carrying 41,000 bottles was taken from a depot in Cumbernauld, north of Glasgow. The cargo comprised 26 pallets of regular and sugar-free bottles, worth approximately £30,000.
The distinctive appearance of the vehicle makes it difficult to hide or sell discreetly, which is partly why the theft has attracted attention. The sheer scale of the haul is also unusual, containing enough drink to fill 250 bathtubs according to the manufacturer's own calculations. Police Scotland launched an investigation and appealed for information from the public.
Lorry thefts involving consumer goods remain relatively common in the UK and beyond. The incident recalled a separate theft in March when nearly 414,000 KitKat bars were stolen from a lorry travelling through Europe, highlighting how major branded cargo can be a target for organised criminals.