Tesco Stores (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has invested over RM300 million to set up its non-chilled distribution centre in Bukit Beruntung, Selangor.

The centre is expected to be opened this September, its chief operating officer, David Hobbs said.

"We are very committed to the Malaysian market. The new distribution centre could be the most modern distribution centre in Malaysia," he told reporters on the sidelines of the "Tesco International Sourcing Programme" seminar here today.

Hobbs said Tesco Stores Malaysia is also planning to set up seven new stores this year.

Tesco Stores Malaysia was incepted on Nov 29, 2001, as a strategic alliance between Tesco Plc UK and local conglomerate, Sime Darby Bhd.

It commenced operations in February 2002 with the opening of its first hypermarket in Puchong, Selangor.

The hypermarket operator currently employs nearly 12,000 workers and operates 30 stores nationwide.

The "Tesco International Sourcing Programme" seminar was jointly organised by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and Tesco Malaysia.

Matrade deputy chief executive officer (Trade Promotion) Dr Wong Lai Sum said the seminar was an on-going effort to promote Malaysian-made products internationally.

She said the seminar will provide an overview of sourcing requirements for Tesco stores worldwide, which includes customer preferences, packaging, regulations and logistical arrangements.

In conjunction with the seminar, Matrade is organising several one-to-one business meetings between Tesco officials and Malaysian companies from various industries.

Meanwhile, Hobbs said about seven Malaysian suppliers sell their products at the Tesco UK at the moment.

-- BERNAMA