With concern about toy manufacturing at an unprecedented level, we at Step2 believe we have a responsibility to clearly communicate the country of origin of our products. We understand that our customers want to make informed purchasing decisions.

According to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines, nearly all Step2 toys can be labeled "Made in U.S.A." Nevertheless, we set a higher standard, and it is our desire to clearly inform you about where our products are made. This includes noting when accessories or smaller toys are sourced from overseas manufacturing plants. We use a three-tiered labeling system on our retail packaging and on this web site:

• "Made in U.S.A." will appear on all toys that are made and assembled in the U.S. and meet regulations as outlined by the FTC that "virtually all" of the product and components are U.S. made. Additionally, for a Step2 product to be labeled as "Made in U.S.A.," any imported parts must not be integral to the play of the toy and should be attached to the product. For example, hubcaps, cap nuts and doorbells are parts of a product but not integral to the play of the toy.
   
• "Made in U.S.A. of U.S. and Imported Parts" will appear on toys made and assembled in the U.S. with mostly domestic-made components and some foreign-sourced smaller accessory components (such as pretend kitchen cookware and accessories). Under FTC guidelines, Step2 technically would be allowed to label these toys as "Made in U.S.A.," but the distinguishing factor for Step2 is that these accessories are integral to the play of the toy and should therefore be called out for consumers.
   
• "Made in 'Country-of-Origin'" will denote toys produced outside of the U.S., but which still undergo rigorous quality and safety testing by Step2.
   

We are proud of our U.S. manufacturing heritage and feel that as the largest U.S. toy manufacturer, it is our responsibility to eliminate confusion. We hope that other toy companies follow our lead in providing consumers with the information they need to make informed choices.