E-business models for reverse logistics: contributions and challenges

Reverse logistics, i.e. all operations related to the extension of a useful lifecycle for used products, commercial returns, excess inventory and packaging materials, is gaining increasing attention globally for its promising financial potential, its sustainable growth alternatives and the environmentally positive impact that it could have. In this paper, we include a brief discussion of the major reverse logistics issues and we present the new e-business models in this field. We identify key factors for their competitive advantages, and we discuss conceptual and current opportunities for these e-business models to thrive and advance. Finally, we outline some possible future developments of e-commerce tools for reverse logistics.