The Circular Economy Concept in the Outdoor Sporting Goods Industry: Challenges and Enablers of Current Practices among Brands and Retailers

Abstract

Based on an analysis of challenges and enablers of circular economy (CE) practices for outdoor brands and retailers, we aim to identify which of these CE practices are best suited for the outdoor sporting goods industry. To develop the study, we used a qualitative methodology through a content analysis of 21 expert interviews. From these interviews, we derived challenges and enablers for different CE elements in the categories reduce, circulate products, circulate materials, and shift towards renewable resources. Our findings indicate trade-offs related to the high complexity and functionality of many products, the juxtaposition of extremely technical and less technical products, and the low product return rate as challenges, while design for durability, design for repairability, and linking the degree of circularity to product types were identified as enablers. Based on our data, we argue that among circular practices reduce should form a basis upon which other aspects can build, with durability and repairability best suited for technical outdoor gear. As our study adds an industry-specific perspective, it contributes new knowledge to the CE literature. It also helps managers with the practical implications, as we argue they should be aware of potential downsides of CE elements and thus consider carefully which of those elements can help support their overall business and sustainability strategies.

Pushing Forward the Transition to a Circular Economy by Adopting an Actor Engagement Lens

“…Relational matching occurs when actors show their openness to exchange resources with the focal actor in the context of CBMs (Asgari and Asgari 2021; Reim, Sjödin, and Parida 2021). This practice can occur when actors—such as customers and suppliers—express their demand or readiness to engage with CBMs to the focal actor (Fuchs and Hovemann 2022). Next, relational matching can happen when focal actors are involved in the design and/or implementation of CBMs with different value creation logics (e.g., De Mattos and De Albuquerque 2018; Hankammer et al 2019), or when other actors reorganize their relationship with them (Hofmann and Jaeger-Erben 2020), or show respect for different expectations, visions, and goals (Bertassini et al 2021; Hofmann and Jaeger-Erben 2020).…”

On the Definition, Assessment, and Enhancement of Circular Economy across Various Industrial Sectors: A Literature Review and Recent Findings

“…By identifying the core principles of these practices, such as reducing, recycling products and materials, and regenerating nature, companies can strategically adapt CE approaches to their circumstances, differentiating and leading the conversation rather than simply following trends while improving communication with consumers. In addition, Fuchs and Hovemann [93] focused on identifying the most appropriate CE practices for the outdoor sporting goods industry, analyzing the challenges and contributing factors through expert interviews. Findings highlighted challenges such as product complexity and low return rates, while design for durability and repairability emerges as a key factor, suggesting that 'reduction' practices should be the foundation on which other CE elements can be built.…”

Polymers in Circular Economy: A Comprehensive Approach to Sustainability. An overview.

“…Design for durability: Products should be designed for long service life and increased strength. This involves using high-quality materials and manufacturing techniques that reduce wear and allow for repairs [38]. b).…”