President’s Letter – April 26, 2011: Strength in
Numbers: Sticking Together Really Does Make a Difference
Labor cost increases, economic downturns, retailer concentration,
trademark piracy…companies in every industry constantly struggle
against a world of hazards that could adversely affect their
business.
Within the toy industry, however, we add to the roster of hazards an
ever growing list of proposals for new laws and regulations at the
federal, state and international levels. Recent examples
include:
- A proposed federal Safe Chemicals Act of 2011 puts the burden on
industry to prove that chemicals in their products are safe in order to
get on or stay on the market
- New York City is proposing a Fast Food Incentive Item Ban
- Washington State is implementing a chemical reporting requirement
for toys
- The United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) has launched an
initiative for global supply chain information system requirements
Despite our record of safety, the toy industry continues to be a
leading candidate for new legislation and regulations. Any company
selling toys and games in the United States – regardless of their
origin or size – must comply with these existing and emerging
laws.
Even the largest companies benefit from the collective effort of the
toy industry through our global trade organizations. A strong
trade association is the best approach to help assure reasonable and
sound legislation.
This is why TIA is continuing to build our advocacy and technical
capabilities. Our visibility and efforts have already helped us
avoid unwarranted new requirements. The key to our ongoing success
is the support we have from our growing member base.
Thank you to all of the new and renewing members for your continued
support. I look forward to seeing you next week in Scottsdale,
Arizona for PlayCon 2011. The program is the best we have ever had
and the benefits you will get from networking with your colleagues are
immeasurable.
Warm regards to all,
Carter Keithley
ckeithley@toyassociation.org
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