SUPPLY CHAIN - Reverse logistics

Pre-discussion

Reverse logistics is when a product goes backwards through the supply chain network. For example, when a customer returns a faulty product to the distributor or when a distributor returns it to the manufacturer in order to destroy or recycle it.

Role-play

Ask students to discuss the following scenario:

A company has received a huge shipment of damaged goods. What should they do with them?

• Return them to the manufacturer to be destroyed
• Sell them as damaged goods on eBay
• Donate them to the developing world / to a charity
• Send them away for recycling

Discussion

Have students discuss with a partner which option to choose and why. Encourage them to add any other ideas if they think they’re better than the list above.