Die Rolle der Reverse Logistik in der Kreislaufwirtschaft: Analyse von Herausforderungen und Erfolgsfaktoren in KMU

In the context of an economic transformation to reduce the ecological footprint, reverse logistics and the circular economy play a key role. Reverse logistics refers to the process of returning materials and products from the end consumer back to the manufacturer and on to the next production cycle. Reverse logistics is therefore a key area of the circular economy, as it focuses on reuse, repair and recycling and can increase the value of a product at the end of its life cycle. In principle, reverse logistics maps the operational activities, while the circular economy focuses on the necessary strategies and concepts. Although these concepts are considered important from a socioeconomic perspective, they pose major challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in particular, for example in terms of resources, expertise and technology. The aim of the master's thesis was therefore defined as identifying the challenges and success factors for SME in connection with reverse logistics in the circular economy. In the theory-based first part, the results of the systematic literature review (SLR) using the Scopus database are presented. Using title and abstract analysis and predefined criteria, the papers and studies relevant to this topic were identified and processed in the sense of the topic. The empirical part is based on six expert interviews and the content-structuring qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz. The main challenges and success factors for SME in connection with reverse logistics are made visible from the perspective of practical experts. The combination of the results from the SLR and the analysis of the interviews show that, in addition to the integration of technological solutions and the development of an effective take-back and recycling system, the training and motivation of employees and the creation of awareness of the benefits of the circular economy among business partners and consumers are particularly crucial to success. In addition, cooperation with external partners such as logistics service providers and recycling companies as well as clarity on the part of legislative institutions are identified as key factors for potential success.