Conserving resources, responsible waste management, renewable energy, and zero emissions goals remain high on the priority list for consumers. The sales of electronic vehicles (EVs) have increased and are forecasted to do so in the coming years. According to Kelley Blue Book, EV sales were up 46% between 2022 and 2023, and are projected to grow around 20-30% this year. With these economic changes, convenience store chains and franchises are rethinking the definition of “convenience” for their customers.
Charge Points and Fuel Pumps
EV charging stations, or “charge points,” are popping up at various establishments all over the country. While places like hospitals, hotels, and offices are offering charge points, they are typically a slower charging option as people using them are in their facilities for longer periods. Convenience stores, however, are investing in a more powerful option that can typically charge a vehicle within 20-30 minutes, called a level 3 charger.
INCENTIVES FOR INVESTMENT
Level 3 charging stations require a sizeable investment for c-stores, but with the nationwide push for sustainability and zero-emission goals, there are numerous financial incentives for installing them. These incentives, rebates, or grants vary, but in many instances, they can cover 100% of your charge point costs. Search here for incentives you may qualify for.
Currently, most c-stores that have begun offering charge points have chosen to make them an add-on to existing fuel pumps, not completely diminishing the aspect of fuel convenience. Things to consider when installing EV charging stations to your c-store:
- Location
- Cost
- Power Requirements
- Conversion Time
Catering to EV Customers
For c-stores that are ready to take on this transformation, now is the time to re-define convenience and reimagine your c-store amenities. As charging a vehicle can take 30 minutes or more, customers are likely to come inside while passing the time. This is a great opportunity to enhance foot traffic, and therefore, sales.
Some ideas for catering to your EV customers while increasing profits include:
- Upgraded Foodservice Options and Dining Space. Offering fresh, made-to-order meals is a great way to drive customers to your c-store, not only for EV charging time, but in general! Having special ordered food, paired with a comfortable area to eat, customers are provided a place to hang out while their vehicle charges.
- Rentable and Comfortable Workstations. Providing EV customers with a place to catch up on emails or take a call, can draw them to your c-store to recharge. Work pods, or designated quiet working stations, also offer a chance for profit when you make them rentable. If the current layout of your c-store doesn’t allow for this, consider offering a smaller nook equipped with desks, chairs, and outlets for customers to work while their vehicle is charging.
- Lounge Area. By designating an area of your store with comfort seating (such as couches, chairs, and ottomans – think coffee shop), customers will have a place to relax whether it be with a cup of coffee, listening to a podcast, reading a book, or streaming a favorite show on their smartphone while they wait for their car to charge.
- Device-Charging Hubs. Another way to offer convenience, small device-charging stations are an easy add-on to your c-store. Additionally, offering a display of chargers and devices for sale near the recharging station shows customers you have what they need just in case.
- Clean Facility and Restrooms. EV and fuel customers are more likely to stop at your store if they know they can count on a clean facility, and that includes restrooms. A standard that should never be ignored, cleanliness in your store attracts people and provides a sense of hospitality.
- Knowledge at the Charge Point. Adding to a positive customer experience, having staff well-trained and knowledgeable on EV charging stations is an important distinction. If a customer is seeking assistance with charging procedures, being able to offer help is a way to add value.
- Use Technology. We’ve talked about the importance of loyalty and ordering apps, and when it comes to EV charging, apps boost the idea of convenience. Integrating an EV section to your app that allows customers to check charging availability, reserve charging times, or pay in advance, can help drive customers to your c-store.
Keep Track of What’s Working
These innovative concepts that will make your c-store an EV charge-point success coincide with your ability to provide products and services within your store that customers desire. Quantum Services is your leading convenience store inventory audit company that can help you reduce loss and save time and money. We have tailored reporting that will track easy-to-understand data explaining what customers are buying and what they are letting sit on the shelves. Our friendly, experienced team of auditors works closely with c-store management and staff to optimize profit.
Quantum Services will be at the 2024 SIGMA Spring Conference, located in Austin, TX, from May 6th– May 8th. We look forward to participating in the numerous educational opportunities and conversations surrounding fuel, EV, and their impact on in-store sales. Industry leaders will share insights about the retail impacts of vehicle efficiency, business considerations for EVs, fuel supply strategies, and more.
We are ready for the future of EVs, charging stations, and the new era of convenience. Are you? Contact us today to see how we can assist in maintaining and growing your c-store through this EV evolution.