
Why you need a returns manager
The Returns Manager: Why you need one Returns Managers are the new Ecom Managers.Not because they handle boxes, but because they protect what your topline growth alone can’t: margin, flow, ...
Returns have long been a cornerstone of e-commerce, offering customers peace of mind when making online purchases. But as a recent investigation into Shein’s handling of returns reveals (read full story here), the way we manage this critical process has far-reaching implications – for businesses, consumers, and the planet.
Is the current approach to returns truly worth the cost?
Photo: Aftonbladet
The report on Shein’s return practices shines a spotlight on an uncomfortable truth: a significant portion of returned items never make it back to shelves. Instead, they’re discarded, recycled, or left in limbo. This isn’t just a matter of inefficiency – it’s a reflection of deeper systemic issues:
Are we truly comfortable with these trade-offs? Returns aren’t just a logistics problem – they’re a mirror reflecting how some businesses still prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and accountability.
While Shein’s practices may be an extreme example, the challenges they highlight are not unique. Across the e-commerce landscape, returns are often treated as an afterthought, leading to:
But here’s the good news: we don’t have to accept the status quo. By investing in better systems, fostering collaboration, and rethinking our approach to returns, we can transform them from a pain point into a strategic advantage. The question remains: why haven’t we acted sooner?
Transparency is the first step toward meaningful change. Consumers want to know what happens to their returns, and businesses that provide this clarity can build trust while setting themselves apart in a crowded market. Here’s how the industry can take action:
Transparency isn’t just good for the environment – it’s good for business. Shoppers are more likely to remain loyal to brands that align with their values. But to unlock this potential, we must first commit to change. Is that commitment worth making? Absolutely.
Imagine a future where every return is an opportunity:
The recent spotlight on Shein’s return practices is a wake-up call. The current system isn’t sustainable, but it gives us a chance to reflect, innovate, and lead the way toward a better future for e-commerce. The real question is: are we ready to take that step?
The conversation about returns is bigger than any one company. It’s about redefining how we think about sustainability, transparency, and value in e-commerce. As we rethink returns, let’s not just focus on fixing what’s broken – let’s build something better. Because in the end, the question isn’t whether change is necessary – it’s whether we’re ready to embrace it.
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