lectric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just a futuristic idea—they’re here, and they’re changing the way people shop. For retailers, adding EV charging stations might seem like an expensive upgrade or just a way to check the “sustainability” box. But the reality is far more interesting. Charging stations don’t just bring in drivers—they keep them on-site longer, increase spending, and open up entirely new revenue streams. In other words, EV charging is quietly becoming a smart profit driver in retail.
The rise of EVs is undeniable. Millions of drivers are already behind the wheel, and if optimistic projections are correct, by 2030 up to half of all new car sales in the U.S. could be electric. That means more customers will be actively looking for places to plug in—and they’ll often choose where to shop based on charging availability.
For retailers, this isn’t just about offering a convenience. It’s about capturing new traffic and creating longer, more valuable visits. Traditional gas fill-ups take less than five minutes, but EV charging typically requires 15–30 minutes or more. That extra time translates directly into more browsing, more impulse purchases, and more opportunities to engage customers.
One industry report even found that nearly 90% of EV drivers make purchases while charging - a fundamental shift in consumer behavior.
If there’s one thing retailers should love about EV charging, it’s dwell time. While a car charges, customers are essentially a captive audience inside or around the store. Studies suggest that EV drivers spend about a dollar per minute while they wait. Multiply that by an average half-hour session, and suddenly the “charging crowd” becomes a highly profitable segment.
If EV drivers hang around for 30 minutes, that time naturally leads to bigger baskets. Charging keeps customers in the building—and retailers benefit.
A common misconception is that the money is in the charging fees. In truth, the biggest profits usually come from what customers do while waiting. Let’s break down the hidden revenue streams retailers are already tapping into:
The obvious one—longer visits mean more purchases. Whether it’s coffee, snacks, or even higher-ticket items, retailers report that sales from EV drivers often outweigh the actual charging fees collected.
Forward-thinking retailers are weaving charging into their loyalty ecosystems. Imagine earning extra reward points while your car charges, or redeeming loyalty perks for discounted charging. Programs like these encourage repeat visits and build customer stickiness.
Some charging networks now offer subscription models, from basic monthly access to premium tiers with perks like priority parking or unlimited charging. Retailers who tie subscriptions to in-store benefits (discounts, coupons, or exclusive deals) create reliable recurring revenue.
EV charging apps are quickly evolving beyond payment systems. They’re becoming digital billboards. Stores can use them to push targeted offers, upsell faster charging, or partner with brands to
Of course, not every location is the same, and retailers need to be thoughtful about how they implement EV charging. Here are some proven strategies:
Grocery stores and shopping centers might install slower chargers since customers already stay longer, while highway convenience stores may invest in fast chargers to keep traffic moving. The right match reduces costs and ensures customers have the best possible experience.
Smart energy management tools allow retailers to share power between chargers, reduce peak electricity costs, and avoid expensive utility upgrades. These tools keep operating expenses under control while maximizing return on investment.
Pairing charging with loyalty programs, mobile apps, and even in-store promotions creates a seamless customer journey. When EV charging is woven into the larger shopping experience, it stops being just an add-on and becomes a core part of the brand.
Big-name convenience store chains, supermarkets, and shopping centers are already proving the model. Some grocery stores are experimenting with medium-speed chargers that line up perfectly with a typical shopping trip. Highway travel stops are rolling out ultra-fast chargers to capture drivers on long trips. Even coffee shops are starting to see charging as a way to lock in repeat morning visits.
And it’s working. Research shows that businesses near charging stations see measurable increases in customer spending—sometimes several percentage points more each year. When you consider how tight retail margins can be, that kind of bump is game-changing.
While EV charging adoption is accelerating, it is still in the early phases. There are about 4 million public charging points in the U.S. today, but projections suggest that number could climb to 35 million by 2030. Early adopters—retailers who install and optimize charging now—are likely to capture both immediate sales boosts and long-term customer loyalty before competitors catch up.
Think of it like the early days of free Wi-Fi in cafés. At first, it was a nice-to-have, but soon it became a deciding factor for where people went. EV charging is on the same trajectory, except the upside is even bigger because of the spending that comes with it.
EV charging may transition from utility to sound business strategy. Retailers who embrace it aren’t simply offering a service; they may be unlocking hidden profits through longer visits, bigger purchases, loyalty integration, and new marketing channels.
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