Walmart Opens High-Tech Perishable Distribution Center

Walmart has opened a perishable distribution center (PDC) in Wellford, South Carolina, that will receive and process fresh produce, eggs, dairy, meat, and frozen goods for delivery to 180 of the retailer’s stores.

Located in the northwest corner of the Palmetto State, the 725,000-square-foot facility is the third of five PDCs Walmart is opening across the U.S. These facilities leverage advanced automation to process more than double the volume of a traditional distribution center.

"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, Supply Chain, Walmart U.S.

Officials with the retailer said Walmart is reshaping the work of company employees by integrating technology that removes some of their most physically demanding tasks. For example, robotics now handle the movement of cases on and off pallets, reducing the need for strenuous lifting.

Associates at the facility work alongside the high-tech systems that build store-specific pallets, ensuring fragile items such as eggs and yogurt are placed toward the top to minimize product damage. AI tracks every pallet to ensure accuracy and freshness. This technology also makes unloading at stores faster and easier, allowing store associates to spend more time helping customers.

The facility is home to more than 600 full-time Walmart associates with ongoing opportunities for career growth and development. Walmart is currently hiring a variety of roles, including automation equipment operators.