Sustainable packaging alternatives in automotive logistics: beta-transformative grey incidence analysis

Purpose The study aims to identify sustainable packaging solutions in the automotive logistics industry by assessing their economic, technical and environmental performance. It aims at finding packaging alternatives that meet the needs of key stakeholders with a focus on the circular economy in the automotive supply chain. Design/methodology/approach The study proposes a novel beta-transformative grey incidence analysis (BTGIA) model by integrating Javed’s framework for dynamic distinguishing coefficients and beta transformations of the coefficients. Data were collected from three groups of experts, representing the interests of automotive manufacturers, packaging technology experts and sustainability and regulatory professionals. Findings Returnable and collapsible containers and reusable plastic crates were identified as the best solutions owing to the fact that they are both reusable and efficient. Biodegradable packaging was important for regulatory professionals but was less important for the manufacturers, indicating the divergence of interests. The priorities of stakeholders differed considerably, with manufacturers focusing on cost and sustainability and regulatory professionals focusing on the circular economy. Originality/value The paper presents a new model of sustainable packaging assessment called the BTGIA, advancing a methodological innovation in grey multi-criteria decision-making. It offers practical insights into the divergence of interests among different stakeholders and their differing priorities.