Strategic closed-loop supply chain management. (Q851942)

This study aims to assess the strategic aspects of asset recovery, and to provide a guide for optimal network planning in closed-loop supply chains with reuse and remanufacturing. More generally, it aims to help Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in their decision-making process of building closed-loop supply chains. It intends to assist OEMs by answering main questions arising in this decision-making process. In the first part of the book, initially a strategic assessment of asset recovery is presented. The author tries to identify critical processes that should be embedded in a company's value chain. Then, a mathematical model is developed to measure the financial impact of three different asset recovery strategies: reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling. The author then extends this model to incorporate competition in terms of using privately-owned asset recovery companies, such as independent refurbishers. After providing guidance to OEMs in considering resource recovery options, the author investigates the strategic planning of closed-loop supply chains. He proposes a generic mathematical programming model for a closed-loop supply chain network design by embedding market structure, the return flow distribution, and reintegration potential parameters into the model. An extension to the mathematical model with the determination of recovery paths and location of recovery centers is also provided. In the second part of the book, two case studies are presented. The first case study is from the tire industry. The author uses the proposed strategic closed-loop supply chain network design model while investigating the remanufacturing potential of car and truck tires. In the second case study from the computer industry, the author assesses to what extent remanufacturing and recycling is profitable for computer manufacturers.