Reverse food logistics during the product life cycle

Abstract

This study aimed to examine reverse logistics across the food product life cycle. The literature review of reverse logistics factors in food industry produced a set of supply chain performance measures. Using a survey, questionnaires were sent to 200 practitioners with experience in food supply chain operations. In total, 48 usable questionnaires were returned, resulting in 24% response rate. The contribution of this study lies in extending the body of knowledge of reverse food logistics during product life cycle. It offers practical advice to manage reverse food logistics. Results indicate that customer expectations are more significant during the introduction and growth stages. The effectiveness of the return process in the introduction stage will determine the future of the product and companies need to manage quality problems effectively. The paper discusses managerial implications and offers recommendations for future research.

Performance evaluation of reverse logistics in food supply chains in a circular economy using system dynamics

“…RL is necessary in the food industry to provide high‐quality and safe food to consumers without any damage to human life and the environment (Vlachos, 2014). RL in the food industry deals with a range of challenges such as food returns, food recalls, recycling, reuse, and disposal (Vijayan, Kamarulzaman, Mohamed, & Abdullah, 2014).…”

“…The food industry is a very suitable field for recycling in a circular economy (Heydari, Govindan, & Sadeghi, 2018). RL activities are necessary to ensure high quality and food safety due to rapid damage and short shelf life (Vlachos, 2014). In addition, the food supply chain is more complex due to its short shelf life (Khalafi, Hafezalkotob, Mohamaditabar, & Sayadi, 2020; Noya et al, 2016).…”

Cascading Norwegian co-streams for bioeconomic transition

“…The aspiration for bioeconomic transition gives rise to different logistical challenges than those seen in traditional forward logistics and requires design of customised supply chains and logistics solutions for key activities such as material forecasting and handling, storage, transport, packaging, transparency and traceability. (Romsdal 2014, Vlachos, 2014, Grant et al 2013.…”

Reverse logistics capabilities and firm performance: the mediating role of business strategy

“…Peer and industry conformity allows companies to meet the expectations of purchasers, users, government, producers and suppliers regarding matters such as quality, safety, price, performance, and sustainability. For example, upstream suppliers' raw materials defects or errors in design, production, and assembling may directly generate great influence on the reverse logistics of downstream enterprises or even the entire supply chain (Vlachos 2014;Polák and Drápalová 2012). Scharnhorst et al (2006) conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of mobile phones and found that recycling the electronic scrap of mobile phone networks have clear environmental benefits.…”