Waitrose is set to open its first distribution centre in the South West as part of a multi-million pound investment aimed at supporting its regional growth and sustainability goals.
The premium grocer‘s 360,000sq ft site at Mountpark’s Bristol 360 development is set to be operational by the end of 2026. It will make deliveries to around 50 existing stores and has capacity to support new openings in the region.
The supermarket said the investment will allow it to reduce annual mileage within its supply chain by 2,225 tonnes of CO2, helping it progress towards its targets of becoming fossil fuel free by 2030 and net zero carbon by 2035.
“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,” said Waitrose supply chain director Alison Maffin.
“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.”
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The Bristol 360 site includes more than 1,200 solar panels and has been rated BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ with an EPC A+ certification. Features include landscaped gardens, a roof terrace and extensive ribbon glazing to maximise natural light.
Mountpark director of capital markets and development Bart Holt-Smith said: “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. We look forward to welcoming this iconic British retailer and supporting its continued success in the region.”
Waitrose said it will now appoint a logistics partner to run the site and work with them to ensure the facility meets the supermarket’s operational needs.
The move follows recent announcements of two new stores in Bristol, including a full-line Waitrose at Brabazon due to open in 2027, and a new convenience store opening later this year at The Arches.
The new site will join Waitrose’s existing distribution network, which includes four regional centres in Aylesford, Bracknell, Brinklow and Leyland, and three national sites in Milton Keynes, Greenford and Reading.
Bristol 360 is located in Avonmouth’s Central Park – one of the South West’s key logistics hubs – and will benefit from improved motorway access via the forthcoming M49 Junction.
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