Walmart has officially opened its most advanced distribution centre in Vaughan, Ont.

The new 550,000-square-foot Ambient Distribution Centre (ADC) is the retailer’s first of its kind in Canada and represents a major investment in automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence, said the company. The facility is part of Walmart Canada’s broader $6.5-billion supply chain-modernization program announced earlier this year.

Matt Kelly, Walmart Canada’s vice-president of supply chain, called the facility a “game-changer.”

“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,” he said.

Designed to enhance speed, safety, and reliability, the facility enables Walmart to move products to families across Ontario more efficiently than ever before, according to a news release.

Built vertically to maximize space and operational performance, the Vaughan ADC can ship up to 70 million cases annually. It currently services 131 stores and two fulfillment centres across Ontario and employs more than 200 associates in high-tech logistics roles.

Vaughan now hosts five Walmart stores and the new distribution centre, together employing more than 1,500 people.

Photo: CNW Group/Walmart Canada