Browsing by Author "Bernon, Michael"

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    Aligning retail reverse logistics practice with circular economy values: An exploratory framework
    (Taylor and Francis, 2018-05-25) Bernon, Michael; Tjahjono, Benny
    Although there is a growing body of literature concerning Circular Economy (CE), there is little, in terms of frameworks in the literature, which focuses on embedding CE values in consumer Retail Reverse Logistics (RRL) operations. The aim of this paper is to present a conceptual framework that supports the adoption of CE values within RRL operations. The framework is designed to assist both practitioners and academics in better understanding the key management aspects involved. The methodology adopts a mixed methods approach combining a desk-based research with rich empirical data from interviews with senior management practitioners and academics in the fields of CE and RRL. From this research, it was found that embedding CE values within RRL necessitates the adoption of a multi-faceted approach. The adoption of the framework will have an impact on practitioners by assisting them in moving towards a more restorative and less impactful approach to their RRL practices. The work is considered innovative and novel as this is the first time the empirical results that suggest a multi-dimensional approach embedding CE values in RRL operations are presented.
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    Exploring the imperative for purchasing strategic alignment to drive purchasing maturity
    (2017-07-05) Nonhoff, Britta; Skipworth, Heather; Bourlakis, Michael; Mena Madrazo, Carlos; Bernon, Michael; Reefke, Hendrik
    This study challenges purchasing literature on its lacking consideration of contextual factors, resulting in generic recommendations that oversimplify reality. Through a systematic review across purchasing maturity, purchasing strategic alignment and strategic purchasing literature, core conceptualisations are examined to understand underlying premises and the impact on performance links. This analysis highlights issues and unarticulated assumptions that limit the generalisability of any relationships with performance. The paper proposes a framework for future research that conceptualises alignment as a smaller gap between the current and target category maturity profile.
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    Online retail returns management: Integration within an omni-channel distribution context
    (Emerald, 2016-07-04) Bernon, Michael; Cullen, John; Gors, Jonathan
    With the rapid growth of consumer sales being fulfilled through omni-channel retailing, the purpose of this paper is to explore the subsequent impact on the levels of consumer retail returns experienced through online sales and the emergent returns management strategies being affected by retailers in relation to network configuration and returns management processes. Design/methodology/approach The authors uses a mixed methods approach from an interpretive perspective. It is appropriate to describe the approach in terms of convergent design, since the authors have collected both qualitative and quantitative data. Findings Return rates for online retailing can be double those for stores, while return levels for “considered purchases” remain similar. The findings suggest that omni-channel returns management has yet to fully mature and the authors find challenges for network design and returns processes in offering a seamless solution. Research limitations/implications For practitioners the authors identify a number of challenges and offer insights to improve performance in returns management process, while for academic colleagues the authors propose a number of avenues for further research both in the qualitative and quantitative fields. Originality/value While a significant body of extant literature exists, in researching the generalized retail returns management process this paper make a contribution by addressing the emergent managerial implications of omni-channel retail returns.