One of the most significant challenges for companies and public administrations is to innovatively adopt the Circular Economy paradigm and apply it to the entire supply chain and business models.
The Center for Research and Innovation on Circular Economy - LOOP Research Center - was conceived as a place for scientific study to activate, develop and support the upgrading of professional skills, aiming to improve the competitiveness of enterprises and the public system in the context of new economic paradigms.
The Department of Management (DIMA) of the University of Verona has developed specific competencies in the field of business and management and in this area and through the LOOP Research Center, it aims to pursue two objectives: development of scientific research and dissemination and transfer of innovative practices.
LOOP aims to be
- a clearly identifiable link between researchers, businesses and local authorities;
- a place for rigorous, internationally competitive scientific research that shares results with companies;
- a place of learning and involvement for businesses and students, as well as development and participation in scientific ideas/projects.
LOOP is structured into three LABs, each with its own specific scientific and applicative scope:
- LAB circular supply chain management: focuses on supply chain management processes involving supplier and procurement management, product development, its production, marketing and distribution, business logistics and reverse logistics; on research related to the implementation of circular model strategies and practices such as closing, slowing, dematerializing, intensifying and narrowing loops.
- LAB circular products & services: works on understanding how to develop, promote, and market circular products and services by exploring the decision-making processes of end-consumers (B2C) and corporate purchasing professionals (B2B) to study the drivers and barriers that influence circular product and service choices and the effectiveness of communication and marketing strategies.
- LAB Sustainability Governance: Conducts research on the role of governing bodies and management in formulating and conveying a strategic approach to sustainability, on sustainability planning, its implementation, and measurement in support of circular and sustainable business models.
