According to the retailer, the new distribution centre will be run by logistics outfit DHL, and is planned to open in early 2027.
Based in Bristol’s Avonmouth suburb, the facility is being developed in a bid to make deliveries more efficient for the 50 Waitrose sites dotted across the south west of England, while also opening the door for future expansion in the region.
Recruitment for the new centre is due to begin in the spring, with around 480 warehouse staff and 80 drivers set to be brought in.
The Avonmouth development will also form a vital cog in Waitrose’s environmental sustainability goals, with the site slated to include a range of green-focused features, including 1,200 solar panels on its roof.
“Avonmouth continues to flourish economically, not just in terms of the number of jobs, but also with the development of companies,” said councillor for Avonmouth and Lawrence Weston, Don Alexander.
“Local councillors welcome the news that Waitrose is expanding its base as this will bring more employment opportunities to local communities.”
Targeting the south-west for expansion, the firm will also open its first new full-size supermarket in seven years in Brabazon next year.
These latest developments follow on from the chain’s decision to invest an ambitious £1 billion into growing its presence across the UK and improving its existing 317 shops nationwide.
Alison Maffin, Waitrose’s supply chain director added: “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 project follows on from Tom Denyard’s recent appointment as Waitrose’s new managing director. The executive had previously spent over a decade at rival Tesco.
