Exploring factors affecting the financial performance of end-of-life take-back program in a discrete manufacturing context

Studies on circular economy traditionally focus on the sustainability aspect, however, the main issue regarding industrial adoption of these initiatives is the financial viability. This paper seeks to address this gap, by identifying factors that affect the financial performance of circular economy initiatives. The research uses a multiple embedded case study approach within a large Danish OEM, who has established four forms of take-back projects, in three different countries. The paper identifies seven factors which across the four cases affect the financial performance, through either affecting the efficiency of the take-back (i.e. the cost spent) or affecting the effectiveness of the take-back (i.e. the cost saved/turnover created) or even affecting both. In addition to the factors, the research identifies and discusses critical interdependencies between them, meaning that one factor might affect another factor positively or negatively. The paper provides novel insights towards the factors that from a financial standpoint should be considered when designing a take-back program, the research here seeks to improve the financial viability of circular economy, thus making it a viable option even for SMEs and companies faced with stark competition. •Factors affecting the financial performance of Circular Economy initiatives.•In-depth cross case analysis between three similar cases with diverse financial performances.•Managerial implications for designing takeback initiatives.•Implications for legislators required to enable industrial transition towards circular economy.