POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Girl Scout cookie season is here, but this year, don't expect to see as many cookie booths in the Tampa Bay area.

Due to supply chain issues, there are not enough cookies to go around. It has forced some Girl Scouts to shut down their sales earlier than expected.

Girl Scout Troop 74852 of Lakeland stocked up on cookies early in the season. To be a sister to every Girl Scout, they've given boxes to other troops who needed more cookies. 

"I hope everyone makes their goal even though we have a shortage," said Allison Mead, a Brownie in Troop 74852.

The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida released the following statement about the shortage:

"While these inventory issues are unfortunate, we are proud to see our Girl Scouts back in their communities selling and they are excited to do so after two challenging seasons in the pandemic."

Troop leader Melissa Mead believes the Scouts have learned a valuable lesson this year.

"It's teaching them sometimes there are challenges when owning or operating a small business," Melissa Mead said.

Cookie season officially ends next month.