Milestone for Sainsbury’s Smart Charge network as it powers 60 million miles without fossil fuels in just over a year

Smart Charge, Sainsbury’s ultra-rapid EV charging network, has reached a milestone by saving the equivalent of 60 million fossil fuel miles on UK roads, resulting in a reduction of 10.71 million kg of CO2 emissions compared to non-electric vehicles.  

Sainsbury’s launched the Smart Charge brand in January 2024 and says that the success of its uptake by EV drivers reflects the scale and pace of the roll-out, with more than 650 ultra-rapid charging bays now live across over 75 of its stores nationwide.  

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement & EV Ventures, says: “Reaching 60 million fossil free miles in just over a year shows what’s possible with investment and a relentless focus on our customers. We set out to remove the barriers to EV adoption by making charging fast, reliable and easy – and that’s exactly what Smart Charge delivers, at convenient locations where lots of EV drivers already shop." 

“Investing in our EV network is a key part of our Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy, and we’re just getting started. We’re excited to keep building on its initial success and take Smart Charge even further in the months and years ahead.” 

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood says: “It’s amazing that Sainsbury’s has powered 60 million miles worth of zero emission journeys in just over a year, thanks to its £25 million investment to install hundreds of chargers at its stores - helping drivers charge easily and conveniently while doing their shopping. We’re investing £2.3 billion to help drivers switch to electric vehicles while putting money in the pockets of hardworking people by protecting jobs, backing British carmakers and driving growth as part of the Plan for Change.” 

Over the past 12 months, Sainsbury’s has invested £25 million in the network. Using Smart Charge, customers can recharge their EVs in as little as 30 minutes with ultra-rapid 150kW chargers while they shop, without the need for subscriptions or apps. All the chargers are powered by the same 100% renewable energy that powers the grocery giant’s wider estate and they come with access to 24/7 driver support. 

Smart Charge customers also benefit from Nectar rewards - earning one point for every £1 spent on charging. Since the introduction of this, more than 10 million points have been awarded in under a year. 

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Green retail will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.