725,000-Square-Foot Facility to Serve 180 Stores with AI-Driven Efficiency
Wellford, SC — September 8, 2025 — Walmart has officially opened its newest high-tech perishable distribution center in Wellford, South Carolina, marking a major milestone in the retailer’s nationwide supply chain modernization strategy. The 725,000-square-foot facility will supply fresh and frozen food—including produce, dairy, meat, eggs, and frozen items—to 180 Walmart locations across the region.
This is the third of five next-generation perishable distribution centers Walmart is building across the U.S., joining operational sites in Lancaster, Texas, and Shafter, California. These facilities leverage advanced automation and artificial intelligence to process more than double the volume of traditional centers, ensuring faster, fresher deliveries to stores and customers.
“The opening of our new high-tech perishable distribution center marks a major step forward in how we get fresher products to customers faster—whether that’s in-store, delivered to their home, or even restocking their refrigerator,” said Rob Montgomery, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain at Walmart U.S.
The Wellford facility employs more than 600 workers and continues to hire for automation-related roles. Robots perform tasks such as moving cases on and off pallets, while AI tracks inventory to ensure accuracy and freshness. The technology also custom-builds pallets for each store, placing fragile items like eggs at the top to reduce damage.
“Walmart’s investment is another vote of confidence in our state’s workforce and growing economy,” said South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster.
Walmart first announced plans for the Wellford facility last year, alongside new centers in Illinois and New Jersey, as part of a multi-site expansion of its perishable distribution network.
The company has steadily invested in robotics and machine learning to enhance warehouse operations and improve delivery speed and product quality.
These innovations are also shaping Walmart’s global strategy. In July, the company began exploring ways to bring its U.S.-developed automation and AI technologies to international markets, further extending the reach of its supply chain transformation.
About Walmart
Walmart Inc. is a global retail leader committed to helping people save money and live better. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer service, Walmart operates thousands of stores worldwide and continues to invest in technologies that improve supply chain efficiency and product quality. Learn more at www.walmart.com.
