Sainsbury’s launches EV charging loyalty scheme in UK first

Sainsbury’s has begun rolling out its fast EV charging service, Smart Charger, with which customers will be able to collect Nectar points, making it the first EV charging service in the country to offer a national loyalty scheme. 

The retailer announced that smart charger customers with active Nectar accounts will be able to charge their electric vehicle and collect one Nectar point for every pound spent, from the end of June. 

Meanwhile, EV drivers without a Nectar account will be able to “quickly and easily” register via the Nectar app or website, or get a card in Sainsbury’s stores and register at home.

Sainsbury’s Smart Charge network has over 400 charging bays, and counting. 

According to the retailer, its service has already proven to be a hit with drivers as a reliable, accessible and easy-to-use charging solution for their electric vehicle, with more than 65,000 hours of charging to date. 

Ultra-rapid’ is the fastest type of EV charging currently available on the market and Sainsbury’s offering is powered by 100% renewable energy.

Patrick Dunne, director of property, procurement and EV ventures at Sainsbury’s, said: “Today marks a huge milestone for our Smart Charge business as we become the first EV charging provider to offer customers loyalty benefits from a UK leading loyalty programme, Nectar. 

“With bays in more locations than ever before, and Sainsbury’s stores conveniently placed far and wide, it has never been easier for EV drivers across the UK to access ultra-rapid facilities, and now they can reap the benefit of Nectar points too.”

He added: “Our Enfield store is a fantastic location, in a popular residential area of North London and near main roads, making it an ideal spot for our 50th location.”