AN ASSESSMENT OF THE CHALLENGES FACING EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF REVERSE LOGISTICS OF GLASS BOTTLES:

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.