Walmart Canada has officially opened its most advanced distribution centre to date in Vaughan, Ont., a facility the company says will enhance service to customers and support the local economy.
The 550,000-square-foot building is Walmart Canada’s first Ambient Distribution Centre (ADC) in the country and is powered by automation, robotics and artificial intelligence. The retailer says the state-of-the-art infrastructure will allow it to ship up to 70 million cases annually to stores and fulfilment centres across Ontario.
“The Vaughan ADC represents more than a new facility – it’s a bold investment in our associates, our customers, and the future of retail in Canada,” said Venessa Yates, president and CEO of Walmart Canada.
“When we combine cutting-edge technology with the passion and talent of our teams, we’re not just improving how products move – we’re creating new opportunities, supporting local communities, and delivering for Canadians in meaningful ways. This is just the beginning of what’s possible as we continue to grow and invest in Canada.”
The facility, which is 94 feet tall and built vertically to maximize space and reduce footprint, currently services 131 stores and two fulfilment centres. Walmart Canada says it was designed with both customer and associate experience in mind, incorporating autonomous forklifts and automated storage and retrieval systems.
“This state-of-the-art facility, our most advanced in Canada, is a game-changer for our associates and our customers and is just the start of how we’re modernizing our supply chain, supported by the historic $6.5 billion investment in Canada announced earlier this year,” said Matt Kelly, vice-president of supply chain at Walmart Canada. “Walmart Canada is building a supply chain that sets a new standard for efficiency, innovation and customer satisfaction as we continue to grow as a people-led, tech-powered company.”
The new centre currently employs more than 200 associates and is expected to create more opportunities for skill development in high-tech logistics roles.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate the official opening of this incredible facility,” said Ken Illingworth, general manager of the Vaughan ADC. “Our team has worked diligently to bring this centre to life. Together, we’re building a great place to work where technology and talent come together to create jobs of the future and make a real difference for our customers and our community.”
City officials welcomed the project’s potential impact on Vaughan’s economy.
“Vaughan has a thriving and ambitious business community, and we are a destination of choice for business investment,” said Mayor Steven Del Duca. “I am proud that Walmart Canada saw the value of being part of our dynamic community. This new cutting-edge facility will bring hundreds of new jobs to our city, generate additional revenue, and further strengthen our local economy. Congratulations on this exciting new journey and thank you for choosing Vaughan!”
Walmart Canada has operated in Vaughan since 1997 and now employs more than 1,500 people across five stores and the new ADC.
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