New $300M Distribution Centre boosts product range and supports local suppliers across Victoria.
Metcash Limited (ASX:MTS) has officially opened its new mega Distribution Centre (DC) in Truganina, Victoria, which now holds the title of the largest single-level DC in Australia. This new facility underscores a substantial investment by Metcash, Australia’s leading wholesaler and service provider to independent businesses, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness and relevance of Victoria’s independent retail network.
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The expansive 115,000 square metre facility is designed to support Metcash’s rising wholesale volume demands within Victoria and throughout Australia. It enables the independent retail network to offer customers a broader selection of products across both the Food and Liquor divisions. Local suppliers are also set to benefit from this new DC, gaining access to an efficient route to market through Metcash’s comprehensive distribution network.
With an estimated cost of around $300 million, this mega DC spans an area equivalent to six MCGs or 12 soccer fields. It will service more than 4,000 independent stores, premises, and wholesale customers in Victoria, stocking products from over 1,900 suppliers.
The facility is on track to earn a 5 Star Green Star Rating, integrating advanced safety and sustainability features, such as a 2.7-megawatt solar system comprising 4,780 solar panels.
Metcash collaborated with Dematic and TMX Transform to equip the DC with cutting-edge Goods to Person automation technology, with a Layer Picker scheduled for installation early next year. The site will process about 23,000 pallets of inventory weekly.This new DC replaces Metcash’s former facility in Laverton, Victoria.
The official opening ceremony for the new DC took place on November 1st, with Victorian State Treasurer Tim Pallas cutting the ribbon. Also present were Luba Grigorovitch, State Member for Kororoit; Doug Jones, Metcash Group CEO; Grant Ramage, CEO of Metcash Food; Kylie Wallbridge, CEO of Metcash Liquor; and David Lousick, Development Manager for the landlord Barings.
Mr. Jones expressed his satisfaction with the project, stating, “We are extremely pleased to see this major infrastructure investment delivered for our independent retailers and Victorian shoppers. This world-class facility will further enhance the network’s differentiated offer and relevance for Victorians, while also providing significant benefit for local suppliers.”
He also marked the facility’s opening as a key milestone for Metcash, adding, “The opening today marks a key milestone for Metcash and I would like to congratulate everyone involved on an incredibly smooth transition from Laverton to this new facility.”
Additionally, Mr. Jones acknowledged the support of the Goodman Group and Qanstruct, who assisted Metcash in developing and managing the construction to completion.
