Product obsolescence and its relationship with product lifetime: An empirical case study of consumer appliances in Japan

• Published in: Resources, conservation and recycling Vol. 174; p. 105798
• Main Authors: Yamamoto, Haruhisa, Murakami, Shinsuke
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.11.2021
• Subjects: Competing risk model; Consumer appliances; Consumer behavior; Product lifetime; Product obsolescence; Product obsolescence; Product lifetime; Competing risk model; Consumer behavior; Consumer appliances
• ISSN: 0921-3449; 1879-0658
• DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2021.105798

•Precise knowledge of product obsolescence is key for extending product lifetimes.•Reasons for product obsolescence were analyzed in relation to product lifetime.•Device failure was the major reason for product obsolescence for all product types.•Relative obsolescence was as likely as device failure for digital cameras.•Products made obsolete due to a desire for new functions have shorter lifetimes. A precise understanding of product obsolescence is fundamental for extending product lifetimes and promoting a circular economy. Previous studies have revealed that various factors affect product obsolescence other than failure. However, very few studies have quantitatively examined the relationships between these factors and product lifetime. Therefore, this study investigated the relationship between the lifetime of consumer appliances (digital cameras, microwaves, and PCs) and the reasons for their obsolescence based on a questionnaire survey to Japanese consumers. Device failure appeared to be the major reason for product obsolescence for all products. However, consumer demand for new functions or other new device characteristics was also a significant reason for product obsolescence for digital cameras, regardless of the duration of use, as well as for microwaves during the first three years of use. These results provide useful insights for designers and manufacturers aiming to extend product lifetimes.