Inside and outside perspectives on design for circularity: barriers across design producers, consultancies and SMEs

Despite the many circular economy (CE) design frameworks, implementation is limited. This study interviews six Swedish design firms (producers/consultancies, small/large) to compare CE barriers. Results show small producers face more value chain challenges, while large producers focus on design. Consultancies emphasize economic/legal factors. Organizational silos and perceived costs are universal barriers. The findings highlight the need for tailored CE approaches: SMEs require resources to influence suppliers, while large firms need better methodologies for internal organizational change.