Reverse Logistics Inefficiencies: A Multiple Case Study Analysis of Food Supply Chains from Pakistan and Malaysia

The purpose of this study is to examine the fundamental roadblocks of reverse logistics (RL) process in the food supply chains (FSC). This paper employs an exploratory approach with multiple case study perspective to examine RL inefficiencies within two contexts namely, Pakistan and Malaysia. Backed by an extensive review of recent literature of various types of challenges and hurdles of RL design and implementation, the study proposed a framework to mitigate all the risks and hurdles. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews followed by thematic analysis for the identification of RL inefficiencies in FSC. Findings demonstrated that although both countries have different reverse logistics designs, they face common issues in terms of managing complexity, communication, financials, and waste. The framework has practical implications in guiding the logistics and supply chain professionals for the effective design and development of RL strategy and best practices in food sector.