UK supermarket Waitrose has announced that it will open a new distribution centre in the Southwest, claiming it will create over 550 new jobs in the region.
Located in Avonmouth, Bristol, the new 360,000 sq ft site will reportedly be the supermarket’s most sustainable distribution centre, and will be run by logistics company DHL.
DHL will begin recruiting for 480 warehouse colleagues and 80 drivers in spring, ahead of the site opening in early 2027.
Waitrose said the new site will play an “important part” in its plans to transform its supply chain as part of a multi-year £1 billion investment in the brand, which includes investing in all 317 of its stores.
The retailer has invested in technology such as AI customer demand forecasting, which it said would build on its product availability for customers, while also aiming to improve the experience of those working in its supply chain by reducing manual processes.
The distribution centre will look to make deliveries more efficient for the 50 existing shops in the region, while supporting future expansion.
Alison Maffin, Waitrose’s supply chain director, said: “As we grow, it’s essential that our supply chain grows with us. This new site strengthens our network, ensuring consistent service for our customers and creating over 550 jobs in a state-of-the-art facility. DHL shares our commitment to sustainable logistics, making them the perfect partner for this next phase of our expansion.”
The new building has a roof made of 1,200 solar panels, energy efficient systems, extensive natural light, landscaped gardens and a roof terrace, with Waitrose calling it the retailer’s most sustainable site.
In addition, Waitrose estimates that the site will help reduce annual mileage within its supply chain by 2,225 tonnes of CO2 per year.
Martin Willmor, CEO of DHL Supply Chain UKI, said: “We are excited to be working with Waitrose as they expand their regional presence while reducing supply chain emissions. The new Bristol site reflects our shared commitment to sustainability, operational excellence, whilst supporting the community.”
