IKEA is shaking up its returns system. To that end, the furniture giant has taken a minority stake in US startup Optoro.
Optoro develops software that ensures a faster and more efficient returns process. The solution uses data analytics and machine learning to manage returned stock more efficiently so that products can be easily resold.
Circular in 2030
IKEA wants to move towards a circular system over the next few years, reusing returns. "We have a mission to be a circular company by 2030 and we need partners like Optoro who can help us achieve this goal," said Javier Quiñones, President & Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA Retail US. "With Optoro's solution, we can eliminate much of the waste in the reverse supply chain, from the CO2 emissions released during a return to finding a new buyer for returned items."
Rollout US and other markets
Optoro's technology will be implemented in 10 distribution centres, 50 shops and IKEA's Customer Support Centre in the UK over the coming period. The chain plans to expand the collaboration to other countries.
Image: FotograFFF / Shutterstock.com
