Inside Walmart’s New State-of-the-Art Automated Facility in South Carolina
Walmart has inaugurated its most advanced automated distribution center for fresh and frozen groceries in Spartanburg County. This new 720,000+ square-foot facility, operational from 2024, is set to create over 400 full-time jobs in the region. Equipped with cutting-edge automation, robotics, and machine learning technologies, the facility will process perishable items like produce, eggs, dairy, and frozen goods more efficiently than traditional centers, effectively doubling the product throughput to nearby stores.
David Guggina, Senior Vice President of Automation and Innovation at Walmart U.S., highlighted, "This facility includes transformative innovations that streamline our supply chain, accelerate shelf restocking, and save valuable time for our associates." He added, "Opening our largest automated grocery distribution center here not only introduces new STEM careers but also reinforces our commitment to enhancing supply chain efficiency through technology."
This high-tech center is part of Walmart’s broader strategy to expand its automation footprint across its supply chain, previously announced earlier this year. Since launching its first automated grocery distribution center in 2018, Walmart has consistently integrated innovative solutions to reduce handling costs and enhance service delivery. Recent expansions include adding automation to numerous regional distribution and market fulfillment centers, along with investing in drones and autonomous vehicles for last-mile delivery solutions.
Tim Cooper, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain Operations at Walmart U.S., expressed enthusiasm about the strategic location: "Spartanburg County’s vibrant logistics sector makes it an ideal base for this facility, crucial for stocking our stores with the freshest items and delivering quality at low prices to our South Carolina customers."
The initiative, representing a $450 million investment, has been lauded by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster as a significant economic boost, creating jobs and opportunities in the state. "Walmart’s ongoing partnership is a testament to its commitment to South Carolina’s prosperity," stated McMaster.
The project is also well-received locally, as David Britt, Chairman of the Spartanburg County Council and Economic Development Committee, remarked, "This investment strengthens our position as a key player in the national logistics network and underscores the global economic ties being forged in Spartanburg."
Walmart currently operates four distribution centers and 122 retail stores in South Carolina, employing over 34,000 associates. In fiscal year 2021, Walmart and its Foundation contributed approximately $15.3 million in donations to local entities throughout the state.
