Second-life retailing: a reverse supply chain perspective

© 2016, © Emerald Group Publishing Limited. Purpose – The authors examine the role of entrepreneurial business models in the reverse supply chain of apparel/fashion retailers. The purpose of this paper is to offer an alternative approach to the “return to the point of origin” prevalent in the reverse chain of manufacturers but less technically and economically feasible in the case of apparel/fashion retailers. This approach, second-life retailing, not only reduces waste but also democratises consumption. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on an extensive literature review, semi-structured interviews with managers of two second-life retailers in Malaysia and observations of a number of stores. Findings – Using the Business Model Canvas, the authors demonstrate the essential characteristics of second-life retailers. Retailers in this study, unlike retailers in the developed world, combine traditional business models with off-price retailing. There is no clear demarcation between the forward and reverse supply chain used to manage first- and second-hand retailing. Practical implications – The paper demonstrates the potential of innovative business models in the reverse supply chain. It encourages managers to look beyond the “return to the point of origin” and seek imaginative alternatives. Such alternatives potentially could result in additional revenue, enhanced sustainability and democratisation of consumption meeting triple bottom line objectives. Originality/value – This paper highlights the importance and relevance of entrepreneurial business models in addressing the reverse supply chain, demonstrating this with the aid of two Malaysian off-price retailers. It also contributes to our nascent knowledge by focusing on emerging markets

An evidence-based approach to creating a culture of inclusive opportunity through arts and creativity

The final report in a twelve-part series campaigning for a country that works for all children and young people. #ChildrenFirstProduced jointly by Child of the North and the Centre for Young Lives, the twelfth and final report in the Child of the North 2024/25 campaign series warns the talents of millions of children are being ignored and wasted, and calls for creativity to be embedded into an inclusive school curriculum supporting all children – including those with SEND – to develop a new generation of creatives to boost economic growth.First published in March 2025, An evidence-based approach to creating a culture of inclusive opportunity through arts and creativity, calls for the Government’s Opportunity Mission to boost culture, creativity, and arts in schools to inspire children, improve mental health, strengthen school belonging, tackle the school attendance and attainment crises, and support children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds to build careers in the creative industries

Biobrane™ for burns of the pubic region: minimizing dressing changes

Abstract Background The pubic region is often involved in accidental hot water or soup-spill burns. Most of these wounds are superficial partial thickness burns. Due to their proximity to the urinary system, as well as vaginal and anal openings, these burns are easily contaminated. Daily dressings are routinely prescribed as the sole treatment. The cumbersome dressing process is uncomfortable and embarrassing for patients. Biobrane™ is a bilayered biosynthetic dressing. Its coverage of superficial partial thickness burns promotes wound healing and allows one-time application. Case presentations We report two patients who suffered superficial dermal burns over their pubic region. One patient had 23% total body surface area (TBSA) burns over her lower abdomen, both thighs and pubic region. The second patient had 10% TBSA burns that involved her perineum and the medial sides of both thighs and buttocks. Both were managed with the standard resuscitation protocol in the initial phase. Their burn injuries were managed by shaving, Foley catheterization and Biobrane™ coverage. Their wounds healed uneventfully without complications. Full epithelization was achieved by post-operative day seven. Both patients consented to medical photography and academic publication. Conclusion Shaving and catheterization improved the hygiene of the burns of the pubic area. The Biobrane™ method circumvents the need of regular dressing changes, eliminating the pain due to dressing changes and preserving patient dignity