M&S starts five-store rapid charger trial with BP Chargemaster

M&S has installed the first of five electric vehicle rapid chargers as part of a trial with BP Chargemaster.

The first rapid charger location is at M&S’ store at Maidstone Eclipse Park in Kent.

The three 50kW UK-made rapid chargers are powered with 100% renewable electricity and feature contactless payment terminals.

Helen Milford, director of stores for M&S said: “As we create a store estate for the new world it’s critical our shops are in the right locations, digitally connected and offer trusted value products and services such as the rapid chargers – we’re looking forward to seeing the customer response to our trial in Maidstone.” 

Matteo de Renzi, chief executive of BP Chargemaster, said he is expecting the rapid chargers to attract new customers to M&S’ stores, as well as service existing customers.

The new chargers at M&S stores are being installed this year with investment from BP Chargemaster, which has a UK public network of over 7,000 charging points, including 600 rapid chargers

BP and M&S have been working together since 2005 to roll out M&S Simply Food stores at BP Connect sites – where BP Chargemaster is also building a network of ultra-fast 150kW EV chargers. There are now more than 290 M&S Simply Food stores at BP retail sites.