By Arthur Rosenberg, senior editor, Chain Store Guide, and Matt Werhner, research editor, Chain Store Guide
The other day, a national business news show focused on the recent product recalls Mattel has been responsible for through its Fisher Price Division. One international recall covered nearly 1.5 million toys.
The discussion narrowed to explore the dangers of lead content in products imported from China, which is the primary, though not exclusive, concern of the recalls. At one point, a guest expert specifically warned of the dangers of unbranded products of Chinese origin designed for children that are available at dollar stores.
The news anchor replied that Fisher-Price was a popular premium brand with a long, established reputation in terms of design suitability for children. She went on to note that Fisher-Price products are generally available only in higher-end stores. The guest expert then backed off but later reasserted his caution, especially of unbranded products originating in China.
The latest recall, announced earlier this week, is part of a worldwide action covering more than 18 million toys based on concerns for lead paint content. Other toy recalls involved tiny magnets, which can shed. If swallowed could these could prove fatal.
Now, The New York Times is reporting that laboratory tests have shown certain vinyl baby bibs, made in China and sold at Toys 'R' Us stores, appear to be contaminated with lead.
Discussion Questions: With regard to product safety, do dollar stores face a greater risk than most retailers, due to their connection to private label and non-branded merchandise of Chinese origin? Will this news produce long-term or permanent changes in the attitudes of U.S. consumers toward products made in China?