SKECHERS EXPANDS

[BIZ: Milmort, December 11]
In 2002, Skechers, an American company wanting to distribute its shoes on this side of the Atlantic, opened a 22,000 m² center in Milmort near Liège. Sales have since soared and six years on, the surface area is being doubled.

For those wanting to centralize imports and distribution, Milmort is unique. Rather than dispatch goods to up to 15 countries, Skechers opted, six years ago, for ONE main center for all products imported from China and destined for the European market. In addition, they wanted to ensure that the site was big enough to cater for any future expansion. Milmort also provided, at an attractive price, quick connections to all European markets: by boat for import and by road for distribution.
Labor availability was among the primary criteria. ‘Although the Netherlands excel in the logistics sector, there is no way you can hope to find 15 people to reinforce your team at the last minute in Eeklo! Yet, fashion is a seasonal activity,’ explains Sophie Houtmeyers, Managing Director at Skechers. ‘We started with just two people. There are now 85 and we constantly work with the Government Employment Agency!’
Going from 22,000 to 45,000 m², is something that can’t be improvised.
Expansion prospects were decisive in choosing Milmort. ‘We are building a new depot alongside the first. The first will be geared towards reception of goods, the second to delivery,’ explains Sophie Houtmeyers. The objective? To meet demand which has doubled and continue to live up to our clients’ expectations. This is a project which is very dear to our hearts.
http://www.logisticsinwallonia.be/newsletter/EN/news3.html