Research on the Internal Efficiency Assessment of Reverse Logistics: Analysis of the Reuse Project

Sammanfattning

This master thesis investigates the internal efficiency of Reverse Logistics (RL) processes within the company Ecophon Saint-Gobain, focusing on the reuse of acoustic panels as part of the company's Circular Economy (CE) initiatives. The study addresses three key research questions: (1) identifying inefficiencies in Ecophon's current RL process, (2) quantifying and evaluating internal RL efficiency, and (3) proposing optimization strategies. To achieve these objectives, the research employs a hybrid methodology combining Principal Component Analysis (PCA), the Entropy Weight Method (EWM), and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). PCA and EWM are used to identify and weigh Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), while DEA evaluates the efficiency of Decision-Making Units (DMUs) across four RL stages: Inventory, Identification, Planning, and Operation. Data from five reuse projects are collected and analyzed to assess technical and scale efficiency. The findings reveal significant inefficiencies, particularly in the Planning and Inventory processes, which exhibit low technical and scale efficiency due to delays, poor resource allocation, and communication gaps. The Operation process, however, demonstrates optimal efficiency at the current scale of the business. Recommendations include streamlining communication through ERP system enhancements, implementing real-time tracking with QR codes, adjustments in planning workflows’ procedures, and establishing a KPI-based performance evaluation system. This study contributes to RL literature by integrating quantitative methods to assess internal process efficiency and provides practical insights for Ecophon to align its RL operations with CE goals. However, the research has certain limitations: it focuses solely on Ecophon's reuse operations for acoustic panels, excluding recycling processes, and the analysis is constrained to internal operational activities without considering external stakeholders. Future research could expand the scope to include recycling processes and external supply chain partners.