The RLA Reverse Logistics Excellence Awards allows the Reverse Logistics Association (RLA) to honor those companies that are setting the standard for excellence in reverse logistics through their vision, innovation, focus, and efficiency.
Each year the RLA accepts nominations from companies and their partners to identify leaders in reverse logistics. Companies and the individuals recognized must be members of the RLA. Please use the Nomination form below after logging in to recognize leaders for the following awards by December 31st of each year.
2022 Award Winners were announced at our 18th Annual RLA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas in February 2022!
See the winners below. Congratulations to all!
Reverse Logistics Operational Excellence Award:
Awarded to the company that demonstrates leadership in the effective execution of reverse logistics. The winner will demonstrate:
- Clear RL strategy, goals and metrics in alignment with the corporate strategy
- Show measurable efficiencies gained through integration of technology, hardware and software solutions into RL operations
- Seamless and visible RL operations across functional and organizational boundaries
- Exceptional use of human capital, innovation, and continuous improvement
We have a tie for 2022 Operational Excellence Award and the Winners are:
and 
Innovation Solution Partner Award:
Awarded to the company that provides the most effective and innovative solutions and tools for supporting reverse execution. The winner will demonstrate:
- Measurable improvements in efficiency and return on investment for customers
- Support for RL best practices
- Seamless integration with customers' technology infrastructure
- Elegant, user-centric design and innovative use of technology
2022 Innovation Solution Partner Award Winner:
Green Reverse Logistics Award:
Awarded to the company that demonstrates leadership in sustainable reverse logistics operations. The winner will demonstrate:
- Green RL initiatives that have resulted in measurable cost savings, business efficiencies and/or competitive advantage
- A closed-loop with product design, manufacturing, and procurement to build better products with less waste and eco-impact
- Public visibility of environmental impact regarding landfill, hazardous materials and carbon footprint as well as eco-impact goals that surpass mandated compliance levels
- Innovative approaches to sustainability and commitment to continuously improving sustainability efforts
We have a tie for the 2022 Green RL Award, and the Winners are:
and 
Reverse Logistics Education Award:
Awarded to the individual who has been an avid contributor to the teaching and promotion of courses with a focus on the various aspects of reverse logistics as a science.
- Focuses on reverse logistics education as distinctly different courses separate from standard logistics or supply chain courses
- Encompasses aspects of end to end reverse logistics including transportation, returns, repair, refurbishment, reselling, recycling, and all other aspects of reverse logistics.
- Leads the academic community by evangelizing for reverse logistics training in all supply chain programs with written articles, interviews, or research
- Makes significant, ongoing contribution to the best and newest practices for reverse logistics education
2022 Reverse Logistics Education Award Winner:
Dr. Ron Lembke, Department Chair at University of Nevada
Lifetime Achievement Award:
Awarded to the individual that has led or inspired the advancement of reverse logistics over the past decade. The winner will demonstrate:
- Setting the standard for excellence in reverse logistics through their vision, innovation, focus, and efficiency
- Providing the most effective and innovative solutions and tools for supporting reverse execution
- Leadership in sustainable reverse logistics operations
- Overall continued excellence in leadership and service
2022 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner:
Chuck Johnston
