Waitrose is set to open a South West distribution centre in Bristol in early 2027, which will create over 550 jobs.

The new 360,000 sq ft site is located in Avonmouth and will be operated by logistics company DHL.

The supermarket retailer has invested in new technology, including AI-powered customer demand forecasting, to improve its product availability and decrease manual labour processes.

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The move is part of Waitrose’s plans to transform its supply chain and make deliveries more efficient for the 50 stores within the region.

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.”

Waitrose’s new distribution centre features a roof with 1,200 solar panels, energy-efficient systems, natural light and landscaped gardens, which makes it the most sustainable site, according to the company.

The retailer estimates that the new centre will reduce annual mileage by 2,225 tonnes of CO₂ per year, and lorries will refill at the world’s largest biomethane refuelling station.