1st Edition

Introduction to Management of Reverse Logistics and Closed Loop Supply Chain Processes

By Donald F. Blumberg Copyright 2004
    296 Pages 42 B/W Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    Increasing legislative and environmental pressure requires businesses to become more responsive to products that either have been returned or that are at the end of their useful lives. Life cycles are getting shorter, and efficient handling can save large amounts of money since many materials can be extracted and reused or redistributed. Reverse logistics (RL) and closed loop supply chains (CLSC) have garnered growing interest as a way to manage this reverse flow of product in a cost effective way.

    Introduction to Management of Reverse Logistics (RL) and Closed Loop Supply Chain(CLSC) Processes provides an overall treatment of CLSC and RL, a qualitative and quantitative presentation of the size and dimensions of the overall market and industry, and a look at future trends. The author discusses key issues and trends in management and operation, strategic, tactical, and operational issues for implementation, and a pragmatic evaluation of the realities of running a CLSC or an RL business.

    Since most supply chains are not designed to handle reverse materials flows effectively, this is a crucial resource for managers who wish to ensure a smooth flow of materials while extracting the maximum value from returned and end-of-life goods.

    INTRODUCTION TO CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAINS AND REVERSE LOGISTICS
    Reverse Logistics and Closed Loop Supply Chain Service
    Overview of Reverse Logistics and Closed Loop Supply Chain Models
    Product vs. Parts Returns
    Strategic Issues in Closed Loop Supply Chains
    Summary
    THE BUSINESS OF CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAINS AND REVERSE LOGISTICS
    Introduction
    Introduction to Life Cycle Management
    Trends and Opportunities
    OVERVIEW OF THE MARKET FOR CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAIN AND REVERSE LOGISTICS SERVICES
    Introduction
    Key Trends
    Reasons for Using Reverse Logistics and Repair Services
    General Characteristics of Closed Loop Supply Chains and Reverse Logistics Services
    The Structure, Size, Dimensions, and Forecast of the Market
    Depot Repair and Value-Added Services
    Operating Dynamics of the Reverse Logistics and Closed Loop Supply Chain Markets
    Competitive Evaluation
    MANAGING HIGH TECH CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAINS AND SERVICE PARTS LOGISTICS
    Introduction
    Closed Loop Supply Chain Strategy
    Factors Affecting Efficiency and Productivity of Closed Loop Supply Chain Management and Control
    Advanced Forecasting Mechanisms for Closed Loop Supply Chain Management and Control
    Control Mechanisms within the Logistics Pipeline
    Closed Loop Supply Chain Management Systems
    High Tech Closed Loop Supply Chains Metrics and Parameters
    High Tech Product Return Experience
    Summary
    MANAGING CONSUMER GOODS REVERSE LOGISTICS
    Introduction
    Manufacturer Consumer Goods Management Structure
    Retailer/Distributor Consumer Goods Management Structure
    Consumer Goods Return Rates
    Summary
    DEPOT REPAIR AND ITS ROLE IN CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAINS AND REVERSE LOGISTICS
    Introduction
    Structure of the Depot Repair Market
    Depot Repair Operating Models
    WARRANTY MANAGEMENT, RETURN PROCESS, AND BENCHMARKS
    Introduction: Types of Warranties
    SECONDARY MARKETS AND FINAL DISPOSAL OF RETURNED PRODUCTS AND MATERIALS
    Introduction
    Offshore Secondary Markets
    Use of Third Party Service Providers
    ADVANCED SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY FOR MANAGING CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAINS AND REVERSE LOGISTICS PROCESSES
    Introduction
    Systems and Technology for Consumer Goods Operations High Tech Logistics System for Closed Loop Supply Chain Management
    Logistics Support Management Systems Functions and General Specifications
    Other Technology Supporting Reverse Logistics and Closed Loop Systems
    Configuration Control
    Logistics Management Systems Technology State-of-the-Art
    Impact and Value of Advanced Logistics Management Systems
    BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER: MANAGING REVERSE LOGISTICS AND CLOSED LOOP SUPPLY CHAIN PROCESSES
    Introduction
    Stage 1 - Establishment of Market Focus
    Stage 2 - Collection of Data on Existing Processes and Structures
    Stage 3 - Establish Strategic Direction and Business Plan
    Stage 4 - Determine and Establish a Management Organization and Operating Structure
    Stage 5 - Development and Implementation of a Business Model
    Stage 6 - Full Operations
    Use of Third Party Service Providers
    Summary and Conclusion: Management of Closed Loop
    SUPPLY CHAIN AND REVERSE LOGISTICS PROCESS DIRECTIONS AND TRENDS
    Introduction
    Long-Term Impact of Green Laws
    Recommendations
    APPENDIX A
    Closed Loop Supply Chains and Reverse Logistics Bibliography
    APPENDIX B
    Forecasting Methodology and Special Data Sources Used to Develop Benchmark and Market Forecasts
    APPENDIX C
    Additional Data Sources on Reverse Logistics and Closed Loop Supply Chain Operations and Performance
    APPENDIX D
    Firms Providing Reverse Logistics Services
    APPENDIX E
    The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive of the European Union
    INDEX

    Biography

    Donald F. Blumberg became an internationally recognized authority on the service and support industry and market, and on the design, operation, service, and support of computer, telecommunications, process control and plant automation, and related high technology equipment and software service. Mr Blumberg was the founder of D. F. Blumberg & Associates, and served as president and chief operating officer from 1969 to 2004.