A Skechers store in Shanghai [Photo/IC]

The first phase project of Skechers' Asia-Pacific logistics center in Taicang has now entered the inspection stage, and is expected to begin operating the beginning of 2021, local media reported on Aug 4 .

"The project cost a total of $360 million. The first phase has a total construction area of 155,400 square meters and equipment alone cost $64 million. The logistics center is expected to store about 11 million products and deliver more than 60 million products annually," said Zhang Yangchao, the project director.

As a world-famous sports and lifestyle brand, Skechers boasts an advanced development model and develops more than 3,000 shoes and clothing accessories every year.

The e-commerce platform of Skechers in China has been operating at Taicang Port since 2018. Its Taicang company has paid more than 500 million yuan ($71.85 million) in taxes, including 160 million yuan in 2018, 270 million yuan in 2019, and 78.84 million yuan from January to July 2020.

Skechers decided to open its e-commerce platform at Taicang Port due to its convenient location. The port has offered its full support to Skechers, including an accelerated approval process and assistance in solving difficulties caused by the epidemic.

Once it begins operating, the project will serve as Skechers' logistics warehouse and e-commerce headquarters for the Asia-Pacific region. A special sale will be held there in August and September to promote the brand and test the newly built facilities.

The Skechers Asia-Pacific headquarters is expected to contribute to the development of Taicang port and provide better services to customers in China and Southeast Asia.