Waitrose acquired a new 360,000 sq ft distribution centre in the South West which is set to open by the end of 2026 as part of its multi-million-pound investment in expanding its presence.

The retailer’s new distribution centre is located in Mountpark’s Bristol 360 development and is set to deliver to around 50 stores with the capacity to support new stores opening in the area.

Waitrose said the new development is a push towards its sustainability goals of reaching net zero carbon by 2035 and fossil fuel free by 2030, with the new logistics site reducing annual mileage in its supply chain by 2,225 tonnes of CO2.

Alison Maffin, Waitrose’s supply chain director said: “This multi-million pound investment is an important step in modernising our supply chain and setting us up to build the capacity needed for our growth plans.”

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“It will enable us to better serve our customers in the region, more efficiently supply our existing shops, and reduce our operating costs and carbon emissions. The modern and sustainable features of Mountpark’s Bristol 360 make it an excellent fit for our business.”

Additionally, Waitrose’s new distribution centre features 1,200 solar panels and received a BREEAM rating of ‘Outstanding’ with an EPC A+ certification.

Bart Holt-Smith, Mountpark’s director of capital markets and development added: “Waitrose’s commitment to Mountpark Bristol 360 is a strong endorsement of our ability to meet the demands of modern logistics from commercial performance to environmental responsibility.

“We’re proud to be working with a brand of Waitrose’s calibre and delighted that our shared commitment to sustainability and quality aligns so closely.”

Moving forward, the supermarket retailer will work alongside a selected logistics partner to assist with running and managing the site.

The new announcement comes on the heels of Waitrose sharing its plans to build its first large-scale supermarket in seven years near Bristol.