Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess the challenges facing the effective implementation of
reverse logistics management of glass bottles in Seven-Up Bottling Company Limited (SBC).
Specifically, the study determined how reverse logistics facilitates cost reduction in the operation
and production of glass bottles, examined the awareness of the community on reverse logistics of
empty glass bottles and assessed the challenges affecting reverse logistics of empty glass bottles
by SBC Tanzania. The study adopts a descriptive research design and uses a sample size of 50
staff that includes production managers, operational managers, procurement officers, bottling
managers and factory workers. Data were collected through a survey, whereas a list of
questionnaires and interview guides were given to 50 respondents and analysed by both qualitative
and quantitative approaches. In summary, the finding revealed that the use of third-party logistics,
transportation of products with description and fleet capacity utilisation as a mechanism of handling
logistic-associated costs are positively and significantly related to the effective implementation of
reverse logistics of empty glass bottles by SBC Tanzania. Also, the findings indicated that the
communities surrounded by SBC have enough skills, environmental conservation knowledge and
environmental education on reserve logistics. Furthermore, the findings noted that lack of
awareness, poor infrastructures, lack of supportive technology, poor personnel and insufficient
financial resources are the challenges affecting the reverse logistics of empty glass bottles by SBC
Tanzania. The study recommends that Seven-Up Bottling Company Limited (SBC) that they should
increase awareness in their community about reserve logistics of glass bottles; additionally, policy
maker should reform the environmental policies that will support the current global environmental
laws and regulations for better community health.
