Waitrose set for massive expansion in 1 UK region after nailing down key site

Waitrose is preparing to launch its first distribution centre in the South West as part of a multi-million pound plan aimed at supporting growth and sustainability across the region.

The upmarket supermarket's 360,000 sq ft facility at Mountpark's Bristol 360 development is expected to open by the end of 2026. It will deliver to around 50 current stores and has room to support new branches in the area. Waitrose said the investment will help cut supply chain mileage, saving 2,225 tonnes of CO2 each year. This supports its wider targets of eliminating fossil fuel use by 2030 and reaching 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."

The Bristol 360 facility includes more than 1,200 solar panels and has received a BREEAM 'Outstanding' rating, along with an EPC A+ certificate. Its features include landscaped outdoor areas, a rooftop terrace and ribbon glazing that increases natural light throughout the building.

Mountpark's 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 confirmed it will soon appoint a logistics partner to operate the site and ensure it meets all of the company's operational needs.

The move comes after two recent store announcements in Bristol: a full-size branch opening in Brabazon in 2027 and a convenience store launching later this year at The Arches.

This new hub will join Waitrose's existing network of four regional distribution centres in Aylesford, Bracknell, Brinklow and Leyland, plus three national sites in Milton Keynes, Greenford and Reading.

The Bristol 360 location sits within Avonmouth's Central Park, a key logistics area in the South West, and will benefit from easier motorway access once the new M49 Junction is complete.