Zest, the UK’s fastest-growing investor-operator of public access EV charging infrastructure, has partnered with Café Fortune, the franchise operator of Starbucks. This collaboration introduces six 120kW rapid charging bays at the newly opened Starbucks Alfreton site, offering a convenient solution for customers to recharge their electric vehicles during their visit.
This initiative marks the start of an ambitious rollout, with plans to install similar charging facilities at multiple Starbucks Drive Thrus nationwide. The project aligns with Starbucks’ environmental goals to minimize their carbon footprint and enhance operational sustainability, anticipating the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and facilitating a smoother transition to EV adoption.
Zest, a certified B Corporation backed by the £420 million government-sponsored Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund, will fully manage and operate these charge points, ensuring a reliable and efficient service for customers. This enhancement further boosts the convenience and appeal of Starbucks locations for EV drivers.
Robin Heap, CEO and Founder of Zest, emphasized the importance of widespread charging infrastructure for the adoption of EVs. “For a smooth transition to EV adoption we need to install abundant charging across the UK. Our long-term partnership with Café Fortune will give people an additional reason to visit the development, and allows customers to charge at a time that’s convenient for them. We look forward to working with Café Fortune on future sites and responding to the fast- growing population of EV drivers.”
The Alfreton deployment represents the first of many food and beverage hubs developed by Zest. These hubs integrate seamlessly with drivers’ daily routines, making EV charging a natural and convenient part of everyday life.
Ian Gill, Property Director at Café Fortune, expressed excitement about the initiative. “The addition of EV charge points to our sites gives customers and added reason to visit and aligns with our commitment to being a greener company. There is a strong synergy between these uses and we look forward to this site being the first of many.”
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This partnership underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in the hospitality sector and demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting future demands for EV infrastructure. As more consumers transition to electric vehicles, the availability of convenient charging options at popular destinations like Starbucks will play a crucial role in supporting this shift.
The collaboration between Zest and Starbucks serves as a model for global corporations aiming to incorporate sustainable practices into their operations. By integrating EV charging stations at high-traffic locations, businesses worldwide can significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability. This initiative exemplifies how public-private partnerships can drive innovation and create a more sustainable future.
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