PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
As consumers start their massive spend on Christmas shopping, a new Stericycle ExpertSolutions report shows that during Q3, 80 per cent of recalled electrical appliances originated in China.
The product recall management company has released its Q3 2015 Index, which shows that 60 per cent of all consumer product recalls in Europe concerned goods that were made in China and Hong Kong.
"This figure reveals an alarming trend in recall repeat offenders with both areas accounting for at least 54 per cent of consumer product recalls over the last five years. No other country exceeded four per cent," said Stericycle ExpertSolutions.
The Q3 Index, based on data from the EU’s RAPEX and RASFF rapid alert systems, reports a total of 997 recalls this quarter, a 14 per cent drop from Q2.
Of these, 407 were non-food related recalls in Q3. The top five countries of origin break down as follows:
- China – 241
- Germany – 22
- USA – 13
- Turkey – 11
- Japan – 8
Toy product recalls increased by eight per cent during Q3, and made up the leading consumer product category with 122 recalls. These events ranged from baby rattles and wooden puzzles to dolls and toy guns.
93 per cent of the toys recalled represented a serious risk, with hazardous chemicals causing particular concern. Toys are strictly regulated to protect children from hazards and safety issues, however, despite stringent standards and thorough tests, flaws in design and materials still occur.
“Awareness of toy safety is particularly heightened at this time of year, when consumers expect the products they buy for children to be safe,” commented Farzad Henareh, Stericycle ExpertSOLUTIONS European Vice President.
According to data compiled by The Economist, 80 per cent of the world’s air conditioners, 70 per cent of mobile phones and 60 per cent of shoes are manufactured in China alone.
“These statistics make it all the more important for companies who are sourcing products and materials from this region to establish stringent levels of scrutiny, to remain vigilant and to ensure that regulations are met,” commented Farzad.
“The European Commission and European Union Member States are already working together with Chinese authorities on a Rapid Alert System for China, with a goal towards improved safety and communication sooner rather than later.”
For access to the full Q3 2015 Index, check out the full report here or visit www.stericycleexpertsolutions.co.uk for more info.
Image source: Shutterstock
