How Can DHL Help Waitrose Build Sustainable Supply Chains?

DHL Supply Chain has been appointed to manage the inaugural regional distribution centre for Waitrose in the South West, marking a significant shift towards more sustainable logistics for the retailer.

The development is expected to yield greater operational efficiency, a reduction in carbon emissions and the creation of more than 550 new jobs to support local communities.

This partnership could help Waitrose establish a more resilient supply chain as the company seeks to expand its physical footprint across the United Kingdom.

Waitrose is a British supermarket chain which has been serving customers for more than 120 years.

Operating 317 shops alongside an online marketplace, the retailer maintains a commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable farming methods.

The company is now progressing with plans to open its first South West regional distribution centre in Bristol in 2027.

By appointing DHL Supply Chain to manage this facility, Waitrose is aligned with a partner that possesses extensive experience in retail logistics.

DHL Supply Chain operates more than 400 international fulfilment centres and provides a variety of supply chain solutions for different retail formats.

This experience, combined with a high-performing IT platform, could allow for constant visibility and speed within the distribution network.

Under the terms of this partnership, DHL will oversee transport operations and manage deliveries to approximately 50 Waitrose shops.

The infrastructure is designed to adapt as Waitrose increases its presence in the South West region.

“We are excited to be working with Waitrose as they expand their regional presence while reducing supply chain emissions," says Martin Willmor, CEO, DHL Supply Chain UKI.

"The new Bristol site reflects our shared commitment to sustainability, operational excellence, whilst supporting the community.”

Advancing sustainable retail logistics in the South West

The distribution centre is located at Mountpark’s Bristol 360 development and spans 33,445 m².

As the fifth regional distribution centre for Waitrose, the site offers strategic access to motorways and regional freight corridors.

According to Mountpark, the hub is one of the most significant distribution locations in the South West and is positioned to facilitate operational growth.

The project will result in the creation of more than 550 jobs, including 480 warehouse positions and 80 roles for drivers.

These opportunities could provide economic benefits to the local communities in and around Bristol.

As consumer demand increases, there is potential for these employment figures to rise appropriately to meet the needs of the expanding network.

Alison Maffin, Supply Chain Director at Waitrose, says: "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."

The appointment of DHL for this site indicates a move towards more sustainable retail logistics within the Waitrose network.

DHL Supply Chain employs several green initiatives, such as smart packaging and route optimisation via artificial intelligence.

The logistics provider views sustainable operations as both an environmental necessity and a business imperative.

According to industry data, the transport and logistics sector is responsible for nearly 24% of global CO₂ emissions.

By transitioning to electric vehicles and alternative fuels, DHL aims to reduce its environmental impact.

This focus on environmental responsibility could allow retailers to expand their operations in a more sustainable manner.

All sustainability, net zero, Scope 3 and sustainable supply chain leaders should attend:

• Sustainability LIVE: The Net Zero Summit - QEII Centre, London, March 4-5
• Sustainability LIVE: The US Summit - Navy Pier, Chicago, April 21-22

Co-located with Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE, these events brings together CSOs, ESG leaders and senior decision-makers at a moment when sustainability, supply chains and commercial performance are increasingly interconnected.

Tickets can be booked online today for The Net Zero Summit and The US Summit. Group discounts available.

Reducing carbon emissions annually

Waitrose estimates that the new facility will reduce the annual supply chain mileage by 2,225 tonnes of CO₂.

This reduction could be equivalent to removing 1,500 vehicles from the road every year.

The Mountpark Bristol 360 site has been described as one of the most sustainable logistics developments in the United Kingdom.

The facility features energy-efficient systems and more than 1,200 solar panels.

Enhancing employee wellbeing and infrastructure

The facility also includes features intended to improve employee wellbeing, such as landscaped gardens and increased natural light.

By integrating these environmental, social and governance benefits into the infrastructure, the partnership could ensure that Waitrose maintains a positive supply chain.

This approach supports the retailer as it continues its regional growth across the South West.