Aldi begins fresh produce operations at UK automated warehouse

Aldi has commenced fresh produce operations at its £500 million automated distribution centre in Bardon, Leicestershire. The facility, which covers 1.3 million square feet, is described by the retailer as the largest automated warehouse in the United Kingdom.

Following the arrival of initial shipments of items such as ginger and avocados in mid-September, the site has begun dispatching fresh produce to stores. The facility utilizes automation technology provided by Cimcorp to manage temperature-controlled environments and high-bay racking.

Once fully operational in 2027, the centre is expected to handle over 1.5 million kilograms of fruit and vegetables daily during peak periods, with a total annual capacity of nearly seven million pallets. This expansion is part of a broader £1.6 billion investment plan in the UK market for 2026 and 2027, supporting Aldi’s goal of reaching 1,500 stores across the country. The site is projected to employ approximately 1,000 people.