Canadian supermarket chain Metro has opened its new automated distribution centre for fresh products in Toronto.  

The opening signifies the culmination of a C$1bn ($719m) investment in the modernisation of the company's supply chain.  

With the Toronto fresh distribution centre now operational, Metro has achieved the final goal of a seven-year modernisation initiative which commenced in 2017. 

Metro opened a new automated fresh and frozen distribution centre in Terrebonne, Quebec, in 2023 and expanded the fresh produce distribution centre in Laval, Quebec as part of its modernisation initiative. 

The company also constructed a frozen facility in Toronto, which was opened in 2022. 

Metro president and CEO Eric La Flèche said: "Our new automated distribution centres, as well as the expansion of one of our facilities, represent a substantial investment in Metro’s future.  

“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." 

Metro’s automated distribution centres are equipped with advanced technology from Witron, a German company and partner of the retailer since 2017. 

The retailer’s transformed supply chain enhances service to its store network by offering greater precision, reduced handling time and efficiency gains throughout the supply chain. 

The investment will also improve accuracy in order fulfilment and optimise customer experience. 

Metro logistics and distribution vice-president Dan Gabbard said: "The opening of Metro Toronto Fresh DC represents a major milestone. 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." 

In the first quarter of fiscal 2024, Metro reported C$468.1m ($349.0m) in operating income before depreciation and amortisation, up 1.3% from the same period in the fiscal year 2023.