News Summary
Walmart has opened a new high-tech perishable distribution center in Wellford, South Carolina, enhancing its grocery supply chain for 180 stores in the region. Spanning 725,000 square feet, the facility employs over 600 associates and utilizes automation and AI to improve logistics and operational efficiency. The grand opening included the awarding of grants to local nonprofits, highlighting Walmart’s commitment to community support and job creation.
Wellford, South Carolina
Walmart has officially opened a new high-tech perishable distribution center in Wellford, South Carolina, marking a significant upgrade to its grocery supply chain that will serve 180 stores in the region. Covering an impressive 725,000 square feet, the facility is designed for efficient handling of perishable goods, including eggs, dairy, fresh produce, meat, and frozen foods.
Currently, the distribution center employs over 600 associates, with Walmart actively hiring for additional positions. Employees can expect competitive pay, with job rates ranging from $19.90 to $34.20 per hour, depending on their specific roles and schedules. Positions include automation equipment operators and various other roles that leverage the advanced technology being implemented.
The new facility is one of five similar high-tech perishable distribution centers being launched nationwide by Walmart. This investment not only improves logistics but also enhances operational efficiency. The center utilizes automation and robotics to move heavy boxes on and off pallets, allowing it to process over double the volume of a traditional center. The implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) systems aids in building store-specific pallets, prioritizing fragile items such as eggs to minimize potential damage during transportation.
AI tracking also plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and freshness of the products. It facilitates faster unloading processes at stores, significantly improving overall delivery times for fresh products. The advanced technological systems employed at the facility represent Walmart’s commitment to utilizing technology to reduce the physically demanding tasks often associated with warehousing work for its associates.
The grand opening ceremony for the Wellford distribution center took place on September 4, 2025, attracting Walmart associates, elected officials, and community leaders. During the ceremony, Walmart awarded $15,000 in grants to several local nonprofit organizations, which included Greer Relief, Wellford Academy of Science and Technology, Breaking Bread for Jesus, and PS I Love You Ministries.
Walmart’s investment in the Wellford distribution center has been positively received by local leaders, including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, who highlighted the importance of innovation and logistics in enhancing job opportunities and community support. This project is part of a broader commitment, as in the fiscal year 2024, Walmart and its foundation have donated $16.8 million to local organizations across South Carolina.
Strategically located to improve Walmart’s grocery supply chain, the Wellford facility is expected to enhance the delivery of fresh products to customers, streamlining the process from the point of production to store shelves. The emphasis on automation and AI not only ensures efficiency in operations but also indicates a forward-thinking approach to modernizing food distribution logistics.
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Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: Walmart Hiring at High-Tech Center in Wellford, SC
- Wikipedia: Walmart
- Supply Chain Dive: Walmart Perishable Distribution Center in South Carolina
- Google Search: Walmart Perishable Distribution Center
- GSA Business: Walmart Perishable Distribution Center in Wellford
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Distribution
- WYFF4: Look Inside Walmart’s Distribution Center
- Google News: Walmart Distribution Center Wellford
- Mass Market Retailers: Walmart Opens High-Tech Perishables Distribution Center in South Carolina
- Retail Insight Network: Walmart Perishable Distribution Centre in Wellford
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
