bp Chargemaster begins trial at M&S store in Kent

The first electric vehicle rapid chargers at a Marks & Spencer store are now live at Maidstone Eclipse Park in Kent. Supplied and installed by bp Chargemaster, the three new 50kW chargers are now available at the company’s newest store, just off junction 7 of the M20 in Kent.

These rapid chargers, backed by 100% renewable electricity, feature easy-to-use contactless payment terminals and connectors for all capable electric vehicles. The chargers are part of the Polar public charging network and are accessible with a Polar Plus membership RFID card or the Polar Instant PAYG app .

bp Chargemaster has partnered with M&S and the Maidstone installation is the first of a five-store trial. The convenient location of the chargers in the trial offers the opportunity for customers to spend time browsing the clothing collections at M&S or to pick up the family food shop for the week whilst charging their vehicle.

Matteo de Renzi, CEO of bp Chargemaster, said: “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, said, “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.”

The chargers are being installed with investment from bp Chargemaster, which has the most comprehensive public charging network in the country with over 7,000 charge points, including approximately 600 rapid chargers.