So Many Recalls, So Little Research: A Review of the Literature and Road map for Future Research

Abstract

Although the literature on product recalls is informative, our understanding of these events is still in its infancy. To promote and guide future research in this nascent area, we engaged in a two‐step process that included a systematic review and categorization of product recall‐related literature and interviews with executives from along the entire supply chain. By oscillating between findings in the literature and themes that emerged during our interactions with executives, we discovered several research opportunities that have yet to be systematically examined by scholars. We also highlight four underutilized theories in supply chain management research—upper echelons theory, punctuated equilibrium theory, enactment theory, and justice theory—that could help guide future research in this area. For managers, this study reveals insights related to four key aspects of product recalls: (1) recall precursors (factors that may lead to recalls); (2) the recall process; (3) the impact of recalls; and (4) mitigation approaches (mechanisms firms can employ to reduce the impact of recalls). For scholars, our study identifies several emergent research opportunities and theoretical lenses in the same four areas and thus serves as a road map for future product recall research.