BP Chargemaster has announced a partnership with Marks & Spencer which will see the rollout of new rapid chargers at M&S stores across the UK. The first chargers installed as part of the new partnership were unveiled earlier this week at a new flagship M&S store in Maidstone, Kent.
The partnership between BP Chargemaster and M&S will initially include five stores across the UK. The Maidstone site is backed by 100% renewable electricity providing power to three 50 kW; it’s likely that the additional four stores will offer the same guilt-free rapid charging experience.
As with other BP Chargemaster installations, all of the M&S store rapid chargers will be part of the Polar public charging network. This means that they are accessible using a Polar Plus membership RFID card, which offers discounted charging for a monthly subscription fee, or the Polar Instant PAYG app. Users will also be free to use contactless payment, as required by new rapid charger installations in the UK.
Matteo de Renzi, CEO of bp Chargemaster, commented, “As well as serving existing Marks and Spencer customers who already, or will soon drive electric vehicles, we expect the rapid chargers to bring new customers to these stores, as they are in the right locations to support those driving along the Strategic Road Network and provide a great opportunity a brief stop.
“We are incredibly proud to be working with Marks and Spencer and the companies are incredibly well aligned, as we are focused on having charging in the right places, offering our customers a trusted service with great value, supported by a seamless digital experience.”
Helen Milford, Director of Stores for M&S, added, “At M&S we know our actions today protect our planet for tomorrow and we’re committed to the use of renewable energy within our own operations and supporting our customers, which makes this a really exciting trial for us. 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.”