Evaluation Of the Factors for Successful Reverse Logistic Applications in the Pharmaceutical Industry: A Fuzzy Logic Based Approach

Abstract

Reverse logistics, which is the process of being transported to the point of supply chain where products must be returned for disposal or recycling, is quite extensive and complex. In recent years, it has achieved a considerable economic magnitude in the world, while the reverse logistics industry has changed according to the sector and its economic contribution. Successful implementation of reverse logistics practices in the pharmaceutical sector, which has a continuously developing economy, is very important both in terms of economy as well as customer confidence and satisfaction. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the factors which are effective in successfully continuing the reverse logistics activities in the pharmaceutical sector by using the Fuzzy DEMATEL Method. Ten factors taken into consideration were ranked according to their importance, and the most important factors were the transportation costs and disposal costs, and the communication performance. Another result obtained is; factors that are influential for successful applications, rational use of pharmaceuticals practices, transportation costs, barcode applications and shelf life factors.