McLaren Construction Midlands & North has been appointed to deliver a multi-million-pound warehouse redevelopment and logistics project at MountPark 360 in Avonmouth on behalf of Waitrose and DHL Supply Chain. The scheme will transform an existing warehouse, originally constructed five years ago, into a distribution facility with new chilled storage and enhanced ambient warehousing capabilities to support retail operations.
Construction and fit out commenced in April 2026, and the facility is scheduled to become operational early next year. McLaren Construction is working collaboratively with 27 client-direct suppliers to ensure all fit-out elements are completed in line with the programme. The project is the first time that Waitrose and DHL have worked together as a consortium, with the contractor liaising with all stakeholders throughout delivery.
01Chill chambers and refurbished offices
Internally, the facility will incorporate two temperature-controlled chill chambers operating at 8°C and 2°C, alongside new high-bay racking to accommodate fresh produce, perishable goods and ambient products. New sprinkler systems, IT infrastructure and data services will be installed throughout the warehouse.
The existing office accommodation is being comprehensively refurbished. The new facilities will include modern offices, wellbeing spaces, a gym, changing rooms, showers and WCs, alongside kitchen and catering facilities, while the first floor will provide additional offices, training facilities and breakout areas for colleagues. Readers following commercial fit-out work may also find our guide to specifying recessed downlights for visual comfort in commercial refurbishments useful.
Outside, the works include a new wheel wash, a fuelling centre, a redeveloped entrance and gatehouse, a new refrigeration plant area, EV charging infrastructure and a new sprinkler and fire hydrant network around the building.
02Sustainability and ecology
The building, which has 1,200 solar panels on the roof, energy efficient systems, extensive natural light, landscaped gardens and a roof terrace, has been rated BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, which the release says makes it Waitrose’s most sustainable distribution centre.
McLaren Construction aims to maximise recycling rates, with 99% of construction waste targeted for diversion from landfill. The team is also working with designers and subcontractors to reduce packaging waste and use material buy-back schemes, including plasterboard recycling initiatives.
The company is working closely with ecologists to protect the site’s biodiversity, including newts, nesting birds, goldcrests, goldfinches and moorhens inhabiting the surrounding swales. During the programme, McLaren is also seeking to create opportunities for local people through its supply chain, supporting apprenticeships and encouraging the hiring of local talent.
03What the partners said
Gary Cramp, Managing Director at McLaren Construction Midlands & North, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed by Waitrose to deliver the Avonmouth distribution centre.” He added: “This state-of-the-art facility will play a key role in supporting Waitrose’s logistics and distribution network, providing a modern, future-ready hub designed to meet both current and future operational requirements.”
Andy Perry, Waitrose Supply Chain Director, said: “Our new Avonmouth distribution centre represents a significant milestone in expanding and modernising our logistics network.”
Spencer Conday, Managing Director, Retail and Ecommerce, DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland, said: “We’re looking forward to operating Waitrose’s new Avonmouth distribution centre and to welcoming new colleagues who will make the site a success.”
Details and image via McLaren Construction.
