Factors influencing circular transition towards the adoption of remanufacturing in the furniture sector

Abstract

Background

The transition to a circular economy presents both opportunities and challenges for traditional manufacturing sectors. Remanufacturing is a key strategy for extending product lifecycles and reducing environmental impact, yet its adoption remains limited in the furniture industry.

Purpose

This study explores the factors influencing the adoption of remanufacturing in the furniture sector.

Method

A structured literature review and qualitative empirical study were conducted, including 21 interviews and two workshops with actors across the furniture value chain. A multi-level framework (macro, meso, micro) was used to analyze factors influencing the adoption of remanufacturing.

Findings

The results reveal that regulations and policies, customer attitudes, and procurement practices are critical macro-level factors. At the meso level, collaboration in the value chain was identified as a key factor. Micro-level factors include business models, operational practices, and design strategies.

Contribution

This study therefore expands existing literature about remanufacturing by identifying the factors on macro, meso and micro level for the original manufacturers, remanufacturers and customers in public sector in this study. Specifically, the study demonstrates the importance of collaboration in the value chain as well as need for new business models in this complex environment.