Waitrose has unveiled plans for a new distribution hub and will begin the process of recruiting for hundreds of new jobs later this year.
Situated in Avonmouth, Bristol, the new 360,000 sq ft distribution centre will be operated by logistics company DHL and open in early 2027.
It will serve 50 existing Waitrose shops in the region and begin recruiting 480 workers and 80 drivers this spring.
The move forms part of a multi-year £1bn investment in the grocer, which will see 317 stores upgraded.
It comes hot on the heels of Waitrose opening a new store in The Arches, Bristol last autumn, and ahead of plans to open a full-line supermarket in the new Brabazon development in Bristol.
The John Lewis Partnership-owned retailer said it had invested in AI customer demand forecasting to build on its product availability, while improving the experience of those working in its supply chain by reducing manual processes.
The new Bristol-based distribution centre is said to have a roof made of 1,200 solar panels, energy-efficient systems, extensive natural light, landscaped gardens and a roof terrace.
Waitrose claimed the complex had scored a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating, making it the retailer’s most sustainable site to date.
It also estimated that the site would help reduce annual supply chain mileage by 2,225 tonnes of CO2 per year, with lorries refuelled at a biomethane filling station located opposite the warehouse.
Waitrose supply chain director Alison Maffin 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.”
DHL Supply Chain UKI chief executive Martin Willmor 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, while supporting the community.”
Former Waitrose managing director James Bailey stepped down in September 2025 and was recently named as the new chief executive at Pets at Home.
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