Zest to install EV chargers at 20 more Central Co-op stores

Charge point operator Zest already operates EV chargers at six Central Co-op sites - but now plans to install chargers at 20 more in partnership with the British grocery store chain.

A UK-based charge point operator, Zest has held a multi-year partnership agreement with Central Co-op for some time. Under the agreement, Zest funds, deploys, and operates the chargers and related infrastructure. This has seen it launch facilities at grocery stores across the Midlands, Lancashire and East Anglia – including in Wirksworth, Shelton Lock, Wildwood, Hambleton, Hethersett, and Thornton-Cleveleys. The chargers they operate typically deliver between 30kW and 120kW of power, and are designed for Co-op customers to use while they shop.

Now Zest is set to extend the same treatment to both new and existing Central Co-op stores as well as at fuel stations owned by the grocery group. No word yet on where these will be – only that 20 more stores will gain new charging facilities. Zest has however said that Central Co-op is part of a “growing portfolio” with UK retailers.

Robin Heap, CEO of Zest, said: “Expanding EV charging into retail locations like Central Co-op stores ensures that sustainable transport is accessible where people live, work, and shop. As a B Corp, we share the values of the Co-op movement, and we are making charging more convenient for customers while helping stores play a leading role in the transition to cleaner, more responsible mobility.”

Andy Peake, Central Co-op Chief Operating Officer, added: “At the heart of this announcement is Central Co-op’s commitment to creating a sustainable Society for all. As a Member-owned Co-operative Society, we’re focused on longevity, prioritising the needs of our colleagues, Members, and the communities we serve, as well as our planet. […] Working with key partners like Zest to facilitate better access to EV charging moves us further along on our journey to sustainability.”

Zest claims to be one of the UK’s fastest growing charge point operators (CPOs). In August, it announced a new partnership with Octopus Electroverse, with all of its charge points now available via the Electroverse app.

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