Reverse Supply Chain Management – Theory and Practice

The traditional interest of researchers and practitioners in the field of supply chain management focuses on the movement of material flows from the initial producer to end customer in the chain. However, nowadays more and more products are returned to manufacturers or distributors. Hence, the concept of socalled reverse supply chains arises – these are chains that serve the flows of products and materials moving from the end customer to the initial producer. The article presents the essence and configuration of the reverse supply chains and examines the challenges facing their management. It discusses the role of the European and Bulgarian legislation and provides examples of the best practices in the management of reverse supply chains. The thesis is argued that the effective and efficient management of reverse supply chains provides a number of advantages and benefits for companies and stakeholders.