Chicago – Best Buy has tapped wireless distributor Brightstar to manage its entire inventory of returned mobile devices.
The distributor, which has augmented Best Buy’s mobile supply chain since 2009, said it will consolidate the retailer’s multiple return channels to improve efficiency and reduce costs, and will manage the processing, repair, refurbishing and repackaging of the pre-owned handhelds.
The devices come in as general returns and exchanges, and through Best Buy’s Trade In, Buy Back and other service programs, Brightstar said.
The distributor said it will also leverage its own domestic and offshore distribution network to improve the resale values of the refurbished devices in secondary markets.
“Improving the reverse supply-chain process is an innovative way for retailers to reduce costs while enhancing the customer experience,” said Jeff Gower, president of Brightstar U.S. and Canada.
The $6 billion business provides value-added distribution, supply-chain optimization, handset protection and insurance, buy-back and trade-in solutions, and multichannel retail solutions to manufacturers, carriers and retailers around the world. For more information, visit Brightstarcorp.com.
