Walmart opens high-tech perishable distribution center in Spartanburg County

Walmart’s new perishable distribution center in Wellford is up and running.

Walmart associates, elected officials and community leaders celebrated the grand opening of the 725,000-square-foot distribution center with a brief ceremony on Sept. 4. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to receive and process fresh produce, eggs, dairy, meat and frozen goods for delivery to 180 Walmart stores.
“The opening of our new high-tech perishable distribution center marks a major step forward in how we get fresher products to customers faster — whether that’s in-store, delivered to their home, or even restocking their refrigerator,” Rob Montgomery, Walmart U.S. executive vice president for supply chain, said in a news release.

The Lyman-area facility is the third of five new high-tech perishable distribution centers Walmart is opening nationwide, marking what the company calls a significant milestone in its supply chain transformation. These facilities leverage advanced automation to process more than double the volume of a traditional distribution center, according to the release.

“South Carolina continues to lead in innovation and logistics, and Walmart’s investment in Spartanburg County is driving that momentum forward,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in the release. “Through advanced supply chain technology and a strong commitment to local sourcing, we’re proud to partner with Walmart to deliver fresh, affordable food to communities across our state and the region.”

Walmart says the company is reshaping work for employees by integrating technology that removes some of their most physically demanding tasks. For example, robotics now handle the movement of cases on and off pallets, reducing the need for strenuous lifting.

Associates at the facility work alongside the high-tech systems that build store-specific pallets, ensuring fragile items like eggs and yogurt are placed toward the top to minimize product damage, the release stated. AI tracks every pallet to ensure accuracy and freshness. This technology also makes unloading at stores faster and easier.

The facility is home to more than 600 full-time Walmart associates with ongoing opportunities for career growth and development, the release said. Walmart is currently hiring a variety of roles, including automation equipment operators. Full-time positions qualify for Walmart’s total rewards and benefits plans, including medical, vision and dental insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, stock purchase plan and access to a tuition-paid college degree through Walmart’s Live Better U.

“We are thrilled to welcome Walmart to the Lyman community. Walmart’s new high-tech facility is a powerful investment in our future — creating hundreds of quality jobs and bringing lasting career opportunities across the Upstate,” Lyman Mayor Glenn Greer said in the release. “This milestone not only strengthens Lyman but also positions our region for continuing economic growth in the coming years.”

During the celebration, Walmart awarded $15,000 in grants to the following local nonprofit organizations: local food pantry, Greer Relief; STEM-focused public school, Wellford Academy of Science and Technology; area soup kitchen, Breaking Bread for Jesus; and foster care support provider, PS I Love You Ministries.

In fiscal year 2024, Walmart stores, clubs and the Walmart Foundation donated $16.8 million in cash and in-kind donations to local organizations in South Carolina, according to the release.