Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is stepping up testing and safety reviews of the toys it sells to reassure consumers after a series of recalls of Chinese-made toys over hazards to children.
Wal-Mart's top toy executive said Thursday the retailer will require manufacturers to resubmit testing documentation for toys already on the shelves or in shipment, so that Wal-Mart can double-check the results.
The world's largest retailer is also increasing the number of toys tested at independent labs by about 25 percent to 50 percent, or an average of 200 additional items daily.
"Reassurance is really our key point," Laura Phillips, Wal-Mart's merchandise manager of toys, told The Associated Press in a phone interview. "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," she said.