Wal-Mart has put in place what it is calling a supplier-to-shelf toy safety program to put concerned parents at ease in the run-up to the 2007 holiday selling season.
"We've heard parents' concerns over recent recalls and we're working hard to be their advocate, ensuring everyone involved in the toy business plays their part in improving standards," Laura Phillips, Wal-Mart's merchandise manager over toys, said in a company press release. "Parents need reassurance over quality and safety. We feel the very same way and will work night and day to help."
The retailer said its program would cover five areas:
- Requiring manufacturers to re-submit testing documentation for all products in Wal-Mart stores or en route to the retailer.
- Hiring independent laboratories to carry out 200 additional tests on toys. The company said it would start with items intended for kids three-years of age or younger. Testing is not intended to duplicate but complement manufacturer efforts.
- Sharing its findings with the entire industry including other retailers. The company is working with the Toy Industry Association (TIA) to raise safety standards.
- Cooperating with Chinese authorities to help address manufacturing issues and monitoring.
- Sourcing products from manufacturers producing toys up to the company's standards.
Discussion Questions: How concerned are consumers about toy safety in light of recent recalls? What is your assessment of Wal-Mart's response and the likely reaction from consumers? Will we see similar programs from other toy retailers?