A comparative study of remanufacturing practices in the Swedish furniture industry

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Abstract
The Swedish furniture industry is dominated by low-volume, high-variety production, with only a few firms operating high-volume models. Although interest in remanufacturing is increasing, its implementation remains limited. This study aims to strengthen circularity in the Swedish furniture industry, focusing on remanufacturing in SMEs with low production volumes and high product variety. Empirical studies with five manufacturers were conducted as part of a collaborative research project, and the data were analysed through ecosystem, circular strategy, and manufacturing strategy perspectives. The companies exhibit similar product variety, production volumes, and manufacturing strategies, but they adopt circular strategies differently, ranging from reuse and repair to remanufacturing. Multiple intermediaries in the ecosystem reduce product traceability, and the absence of information exchange with customers further constrains circular flows. The study identifies a progression towards remanufacturing that begins with customer-specific remanufacturing, develops into hybrid production combining new and remanufactured products, and ultimately requires strategic decisions on dedicated systems or outsourcing as volumes increase.

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