Metro opens Toronto fresh facility, completes billion-dollar supply chain transformation

Metro Inc.’s automated fresh distribution centre in Toronto is now open.

The opening marks the completion of the grocer’s seven-year, billion-dollar supply chain modernization project.

Initiated in 2017, the project included Metro’s new automated fresh and frozen distribution centre in Terrebonne, Que., which opened in 2023, as well as the expansion of its fresh production distribution facility in Laval, Que. and the construction of two new automated distribution centre in Toronto—including the new fresh centre and a separate frozen facility, which opened in 2022.

"Our new automated distribution centres as well as the expansion of one of our facilities represent a substantial investment in Metro's future," said Eric La Flèche, president and CEO, in a release. "The transformation of our supply chain will provide capacity for future growth and efficiency, strengthen our market position and generate new opportunities for our employees."

Technology used in the automated centres is provided by Germany-headquartered Witron.

Metro said the upgraded supply chain will improve service to its store network, provide efficiency gains, offer greater precision in order fulfillment, improve customer experience and sustain growth.

"The opening of Metro's Toronto Fresh DC represents a major milestone," added Dan Gabbard, VP of logistics and distribution at Metro. "This facility incorporates modern technology that boosts our efficiency as a retailer, ensuring we can deliver high-quality food products to our stores more efficiently, thereby enhancing freshness and quality."