Waitrose’s first South West distribution centre to create over 550 jobs

• The new site will be Waitrose’s most sustainable distribution centre
• 360,000 sq ft Bristol site to open in early 2027
• Investing in market leading technology to maintain award-winning product availability

Waitrose has announced that its first distribution centre in the South West will create over 550 new jobs in the region. Located in Avonmouth, Bristol, the new site will be its most sustainable distribution centre, and will be run by logistics company DHL.

DHL will begin recruiting for 480 warehouse colleagues and 80 drivers next spring, ahead of the site opening in early 2027.

The new site will play an important part in Waitrose’s plans to transform its supply chain as part of a multi-year £1bn investment in the brand, which includes investing in all 317 of its stores to deliver its goal of being the number one choice for food lovers.

The retailer has invested in new market leading technology, including AI customer demand forecasting, to build on its industry award-winning¹ product availability for customers, while also improving the experience of those working in its supply chain by reducing manual processes.

The new distribution centre will make deliveries more efficient for the 50 existing shops in the region, while supporting future expansion.

The retailer opened a new shop in The Arches, Bristol this autumn, and will open a full-line supermarket in the new Brabazon development in Bristol.

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, which has a roof made of 1,200 solar panels, energy efficient systems, extensive natural light, landscaped gardens and a roof terrace has been rated BREEAM ‘Outstanding’³ making 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, which is the equivalent of taking over 1,500 vehicles² off the road annually. Lorries will refuel at the world’s largest biomethane refuelling station, which is opposite the warehouse.

Martin Willmor, CEO, 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.”