Supply Chain Managers' Reverse Logistics Strategies to Control Cost Through Risk Mitigation

• Main Author: Reeves, Lawrence A
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: ScholarWorks 2019
• Subjects: Communication; Food; Inspection; Logistics; Risk Management; Transportation; Business; Sustainability
• Online Access: https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/7068; https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=8347&context=dissertations

Supply chain managers in the food and beverage industry face significant challenges regarding the use of effective reverse logistics strategies to reduce supply chain disruptions, control risk, and reduce costs. Through the lens of resource dependence theory, the purpose of this multiple case study was to explore reverse logistics strategies used by supply chain managers in the United States to control cost through risk mitigation. Participants in this study included 5 supply chain managers in the food and beverage distribution industry in the state of Georgia who implemented successful reverse logistics strategies to control cost through risk mitigation. Data were collected using face-to-face, semi-structured interviews and a review of relevant company documents. Data were thematically analyzed using Yin's 5-step process of compiling, disassembling, reassembling, interpreting, and concluding the data. The 3 key themes that emerged from data analysis were a communication strategy, an inspection strategy, and a cost allocation strategy. Supply chain leaders may use the findings of this study to improve their communication flow with internal and external partners, implement an effective inspection strategy to reduce damaged goods, and implement a cost allocation strategy to reduce their financial exposure regarding products in need of return to the original source because of damage or spoilage. The implications of the research for positive social change include the potential for supply chain leaders to lower the cost of food and beverage products for consumers and avoid or reduce the flow of damaged or spoiled food and beverage products into consumer markets through effective implementation of reverse logistics strategies.