Developing Reverse Logistics Programs: A Resource Based View

Abstract

Previous research proposes a six-process model for reverse logistics (RL) program design and execution. This manuscript advances RL related knowledge by incorporating the previous model into a broader theoretical framework, namely, the Resource Based View (RBV) of the firm. The current research employs exploratory techniques to investigate the applicability of RBV and its main tenants within the RL context. Based on in-depth interviews with 16 executives from seven different companies, the relationships among resources, RL capabilities, and RL competencies are explored.