When Skechers USA Inc. built a new distribution facility in Rancho Belago, Calif., the footwear company looked to deploy a surveillance system that would meet its unique security requirements because of its designation as a U.S. foreign trade zone.

The 1.8 million-square-foot complex for one of the nation’s largest footwear firms required a multi-tiered surveillance system to help monitor product entering and exiting the warehouse. With a U.S. foreign trade zone designation, Skechers takes advantage of numerous benefits, such as delayed or reduced duty payments on foreign merchandise and logistical and tax benefits, but required the need for a perimeter surveillance system with high-quality video recording and playback capabilities, plus the ability to zoom cameras.

Working with systems integrator Select Systems Technology Inc., of Torrance, Calif., Skechers deployed a $250 million surveillance solution from American Dynamics for its flagship distribution facility.

“Skechers had unique needs for its new, state-of-the-art facility and we were able to meet those needs with a creative blend of innovative technology and expert design,” says Vijay Patel, senior manager at Select Systems Technology Inc.

Skechers selected the American Dynamics’ victor video management system, which provides security officers the ability to view, search and export video from both DVR and NVR environments within a single interface. The company also chose Illustra 400 high-definition IP mini dome cameras and IP SpeedDome cameras from American Dynamics as part of the surveillance solution.

“Our new facility was designed to optimize operational efficiencies of our distribution operations, and we expected the same performance from our new security and surveillance technology,” says Greg Drivas, director of loss prevention for Skechers USA. “Using victor from American Dynamics simplifies the management of our large camera network for our loss prevention and security staff.” 

In addition to the Illustra 400 and IP SpeedDome cameras, the footwear company is using an internal network video storage solution from American Dynamics, which was attractive because it was a turnkey solution for the IT department. The scalable storage system is designed to work with high-performance devices such as the victor video management system.    

Overall, the scalable surveillance solution is providing Skechers with the flexibility it needs to keep pace as its security needs grow.