The British Standards Institution (BSI) is responsible for awarding the Kitemark symbol to all kinds of products, services and processes - but whilst the logo is highly recognisable, few toy consumers really know what it means.
The BSI describe the Kitemark as "the world's premier symbol of trust, integrity and quality". The little black and white Kitemark logo which is made up of the letters "B" and "S" is awarded to all kinds of products (not just toys) following intensive, independent testing at the BSI Product Services HQ in Hemel Hempstead. First introduced in 1903, the Kitemark is the best known and respected mark of quality in the UK, and has been regularly voted as a 'UK Business Superbrand'.
Considered a sign of reliability and safety, the British Standards Kitemark can actually be a key differentiator between one company and the next. The voluntary scheme is often entered by companies that wish to reassure their customers that they have satisfied the most rigorous of quality processes. In the case of nursery and outdoor play equipment, it can actually be very harmful to not have the Kitemark symbol displayed on your products since this is an entry-level requirement for many local authorities when sourcing these products.
