There’s an old saying: “A vulture will always come back for more.”
And although we don’t often see one perched on a milk float in Derbyshire, you can sometimes recognise the attitude.
You give a little. Then a little more. You go out of your way to help, squeeze something in, absorb another cost — and before you know it, your kindness has become somebody else’s expectation.
Rather like putting food out for the birds. It starts with a robin and a handful of crumbs. A week later, three pigeons are banging on the kitchen window demanding sourdough.
There’s a difference between earning and taking
Every business needs to earn a living. Ours certainly does. Sadly, the dairy doesn’t accept cheerful conversation as payment, and we’ve yet to find a delivery van that runs on goodwill.
But there’s a fair way to do business.
Charge fairly. Pay fairly. Keep your promises. And remember that the person on the other side of the transaction has bills, worries and a living to make too.
The trouble starts when someone sees a bit of generosity and thinks, “Lovely. How much more can I get?”
Always another favour. Another concession. Another opportunity to take a little extra.
Eventually, something gives. Usually the patience of the person who’s been doing all the giving.
A milk round is built on give and take
At DSTEP Deliveries, the best part of the job is the everyday relationship with our customers.
It’s the empties left out ready. The clear note when you’re going away. The payment made promptly. The kind message after a miserable night’s weather.
And from our side, it’s getting up, getting out and doing our best to have your order waiting when you open the door.
Sometimes we get things wrong. When that happens, customers deserve an apology, an explanation and a proper effort to put it right. Asking for the service you’ve paid for is perfectly fair.
That mutual respect is what makes a local business work. Both sides doing their bit, with a little understanding when life throws a spanner in the works.
Or, in our case, a road closure, a puncture and a wheelie bin placed with remarkable precision across the garden gate.
Loyalty deserves looking after
We’re fortunate to have customers who understand the work behind that bottle on the doorstep.
They know there are real people loading vans, checking orders and heading out while most sensible folk are deciding whether to turn over for another hour.
Their support matters. Every regular order helps keep a round going, and every recommendation helps it grow.
That sort of loyalty deserves appreciation. It also reminds us why fairness matters so much: a good relationship should leave both sides happy to carry on.
There’s only so much anyone can keep giving when the other side keeps reaching for more.
So here’s to the customers, suppliers and hardworking people who understand a fair deal. The ones who appreciate a favour, return a kindness and know that “thank you” still goes a long way.
We’ll keep our attention on them.
The vultures can find their breakfast elsewhere. We’ve got milk to deliver. 🥛
DSTEP Deliveries — a little fairness goes a long way.
