3rd R – Revamping Business Through Repair

This chapter examines how repair practices extend product lifecycles, shifting away from traditional linear economy models to create continuous revenue streams. This shift addresses planned obsolescence, a mid-twentieth-century strategy designed to shorten product lifespans for frequent replacements. Moving toward repairability reduces waste and increases revenue through prolonged product engagement. Key messages include the right to repair movement, advocating for repair feasibility and affordability, and the importance of enhancing product design for repairability using durable materials and modular designs. Efficient repair services require reconfigured supply chains supported by digital systems for real-time inventory and logistics tracking. Manufacturers can embrace repair services through mobile repair units, partnerships with third-party networks, and innovative financial models, expanding service reach and enhancing customer satisfaction. A shift in sales strategies is essential, emphasizing product longevity and service, integrating digital platforms for enhanced customer engagement, and offering extended warranties and subscription-based models. Educating customers about the benefits of circularity and offering loyalty programs, personalized maintenance schedules, and transparent repair tracking promotes a culture valuing product longevity and resource efficiency. Investment in training for employees and repair providers is required. Collaboration with Logistic Service Providers supports repairability by offering services like reverse logistics and repair hubs. The capability map guides manufacturers in adopting repair business models.