Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre unifies security

A major Canadian shopping center is shifting from proprietary security systems to an integrated modern architecture.

The Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, Canada is unifying its security operations based on the Genetec Security Center platform. The center has more than 2 million square feet of retail space and 270 stores, and is managed by Oxford Properties Group. In addition to shopping, it offers visitors valet services, a museum-quality art collection and 24/7 on-site security.

Previously, Yorkdale leveraged a proprietary video system and standalone access control solution, requiring security operations personnel to navigate between the two systems, slowing investigations and incident response. In addition, having a closed security solution prevented the center from implementing new technologies such as cutting-edge cameras or system integrations.

Yorkdale decided to replace its legacy video and access control systems with the Genetec Security Center platform and Omnicast access control solution, which provided video management and unified video, access control, and data from other sensors into one system.

Utilizing these Genetec solutions, Yorkdale has enhanced its ability to implement security policies, monitor events and run investigations. Since it is an open platform, Yorkdale can expand the system with new technology as it emerges.

The center’s security operators manage over 750 cameras, 500 access control readers, and 2,000 cardholders using Security Center. Yorkdale has also deployed Genetec solutions including the Sipelia intercom module, which enables security personnel to initiate two-way conversations across 150 intercom stations located in parking garages, entrances and other areas. 

Yorkdale also added the Genetec AutoVu automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) system, the Genetec Mission Control decision management system, and other technologies within the platform.

All video, data, and calls come back into a command center. Security managers can also use the Genetec mobile app on their phones to check in on situations from anywhere in the mall. 

 Looking ahead, Yorkdale is considering deploying other advanced security solutions, such as deploying body-wearable technology and integrating video from those devices into the unified platform. The center is also evaluating using Genetec Clearance digital evidence management system to streamline evidence-sharing with law enforcement.

“With Security Center, we’re shaving valuable time from investigations and response, said Luca Aiello, security manager at Oxford Properties. “Our security operators can identify potential risks, retrieve critical information, and deploy on-foot officers faster within the shopping center. Overall, we’ve become far more proactive and efficient in handling anything that comes up. That ensures we keep providing an exceptional guest experience.”

“Since implementing the AutoVu ALPR system, we’ve become significantly more responsive to vehicle theft-related incidents and investigations,” said Bob Vounotripidis, senior operations manager at Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Word has gotten out–Yorkdale is a property that takes security seriously, and the perpetrators will be caught.”

[Read more: Mall of America augments security officers with smart cameras]