Barriers to dematerialize supply chains to reach circularity : From the perspective of manufacturing companies

Sammanfattning: There is an increasing awareness of the opportunities offered by the circular economy as a transition away from the linear economy that depletes the resources available. Manufacturing companies are especially challenged in this transition since they are often based on linear business models and supply chains. One way to achieve a circular supply chain is to dematerialize, which means that the use of physical products decreases, for example with the help of servitization. Dematerialization can be used to create opportunities to slow- and close loops which are two important mechanisms to reach circularity. The aim of this study is to explore what barriers exist and how these hamper the use of servitization as a part of dematerialization of supply chains in order to slow- and close loops. In this area, previous research is limited, especially when it comes to manufacturing companies and their supply chains. To address its aim the study employed a qualitative research method, including semi-structured interviews complemented by document analysis. This study identifies twelve specific obstacles for using dematerialization to reach a circular supply chain, and these can be broadly categorized in traditions, profit versus sustainability, business models, collaboration, and external factors. The conclusion of this study contributes by putting the findings in connection to previous research, as well as recommendations to manufacturing companies on how to overcome the barriers.