Page 14 - Security Today, September/October 2021

A Secure Home Run
Covering all the bases with the deployment of state-of-the-art integrated security solution
By Monique Merhige-Machado
There is no doubt, that New York City has an incredible history in major league baseball. New York can brag about the careers of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, and more recently Mike Piazza and Derek Jeter. The latest piece of baseball history in New York City is the first MLB retail store.
The MLB NYC flagship store opened in midtown Manhattan in October 2020, and is the first permanent MLB retail store in the United States. MLB NYC collaborated with Legends, a premium experiences company with global expertise across merchandising, sales, partnerships, planning, technology, and hospitality. Legends decided to set the bar high in terms of square feet, breadth of merchandise, and premium experiences, which created a true baseball heaven for dedicated fans of any Major League baseball team, while also providing the ultimate fan experience.
The state-of-the-art retail destination features the widest in-store assortment of MLB products anywhere in the world, spanning two floors and approximately 10,000 square feet, and houses 100 different apparel styles. This one-stop shop for baseball gear is the widest in- store assortment of all 30 MLB club products anywhere in the world. Whether a fan wants a cap from the Miami Marlins or the Baltimore Orioles, they will find it amongst the 10,000 caps offered in-store.
If they wish to purchase a more personalized piece with their name on it, an embroidery station is available as well as a sock customization station. The wide range of memorabilia found in the store includes game-used hats, gloves, baseballs, and jerseys to signed baseballs, photographs, and even game-used & autographed cleats. Aside from wearable and frameable swag, the store also has a home and office section where fans can purchase customized team gift bags and even team logo guitars.
Not only is there a game-used section, but there is also a special line of game-
used items from historic events including past World Series, All-Star games and Home Run Derbies. These top-notch products come from licensed partnerships with brands like Nike, New Era Cap, ’47, Topps, and more that carry merchandise of all 30 MLB teams.
A state-of-the-art high-profile retail store like MLB NYC required an enterprise level state-of-the-art integrated security solution to help protect its valuable collections. After being recommended by Legend’s consultant
on this project, SAS Technologies Corp., a Certified Minority Women Owned (M/WBE) leading Long Island-based security integrator was brought on board to implement a security solution that will protect not only the merchandise and memorabilia onsite. The store will also host player appearances, special events, product unveilings and much more as a way for fans to celebrate all things Major League Baseball.
With more than 15 years of experience
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