Smart Charge powered by Sainsbury’s hits new milestone with recent launch of Tamworth charging hub

Sainsbury’s reports a milestone with the launch of its latest ultra-rapid EV charging service. The unveiling of a new Smart Charge hub at its Tamworth store, Staffordshire means the grocery giant now has over 500 charging bays available up and down the country.

Smart Charge is pitched as the only ultra-rapid EV charging network that is owned and operated by a UK supermarket.

Like the rest of Sainsbury’s estate, it is powered by 100% renewable electricity, and it aims to make access to EV charging on-the-go more accessible while supporting the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

On average a new hub is opened every week and in just over a year, Smart Charge has launched over 500 charging bays across 62 sites so far.  

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement & EV Ventures, says: “Today we’ve reached another fantastic milestone in the roll-out of Smart Charge with the launch of our 500th charging bay.”

“We know that a lack of readily available public charging points and long wait times to use existing services can be barriers to EV adoption in the UK, and we’re on a mission to improve this wherever we can.”

“With ultra-rapid charging points in more locations than ever before, we’re focused on expanding our Smart Charge Network in key areas up and down the country where we know the demand is highest.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Green retail is a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which are now closed for entries.

The awards, sponsored by CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, Business France, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.