Case Study: IT Asset Disposition for a Major U.S. Retailer

When one of the most recognized retail brands in the country began closing operations, they faced the challenge of responsibly clearing out thousands of locations filled with IT and electronic equipment. Re-Source Partners was brought in to manage the full scope of their IT asset disposition (ITAD) needs.

At the height of the engagement, we were processing multiple truckloads of equipment each day, with everything being completely processed within 45 days. Our team worked weekends when needed to keep up with the pace. While our specialty lies in IT hardware, the scope quickly expanded – anything considered an “electronic” was shipped our way. The overall split of materials ended up being about 50% IT equipment and 50% miscellaneous electronics and inventory.

Over the first six years of the project, we processed over 260,000 IT assets, averaging tens of thousands annually. Early phases saw a sharp surge in volume, with activity remaining steady in later years. Even today, we continue to process residual equipment from this client as it surfaces.

A core priority throughout the project was ensuring secure, responsible handling of all equipment:

• Data Destruction: All data-bearing devices were processed in compliance with industry standards, ensuring complete data sanitization or physical destruction.
• Resale & Recovery: We maximized value through resale of reusable IT hardware, leveraging our large network of IT buyers across the country.
• Environmental Recycling: Any items that couldn’t be reused or resold were recycled according to strict environmental protocols.
• Donation & Reuse of Miscellaneous Inventory: Items such as shoes, clothing, or cleaning supplies -while outside our typical scope – were never discarded. If resale wasn’t an option, we ensured they were either donated to appropriate organizations or recycled responsibly.
  

Scope of Materials Handled

Throughout the project, our team managed a wide array of equipment—ranging from standard IT assets to retail-specific electronics. This included:

• Core IT Equipment:
  • Computers
  • Monitors
  • Printers
  • Network hardware (switches, routers, access points)
  • Cables and accessories
  • Security systems and related electronics
• Retail Technology & Electronics:
  • Registers and POS systems
  • Scan guns and barcode readers
  • Desk phones and communication devices
  • Electronic shelf labels and price tags
  • Digital signage and display systems

Project Highlights:

• Managed a nationwide, multi-year ITAD initiative for a major U.S. retailer
• Processed multiple truckloads of electronics daily during peak periods
• Secure data destruction for all data-bearing devices
• Maximized asset recovery through resale and extensive buyer network
• Zero-landfill commitment for miscellaneous inventory through donation or recycling

This engagement highlights our ability to scale quickly, adapt to non-standard inventory, and maintain a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and data security under pressure.