Supermarkets are rapidly becoming key players in the UK’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, with a new report revealing a significant increase in charge points over the last 18 months.
According to new data from Zapmap and the RAC, the number of EV charge points at UK supermarkets has surged by a third (34%) since the start of 2024. This growth adds more than 1,000 new charge points, bringing the total to 3,917.
The findings highlight a major shift in how EV drivers can top up their vehicles, with supermarket car parks now accounting for 5% of all charge points nationwide.
The report also shows a growing focus on high-speed charging. Of the new charge points, 596 are rapid or ultra-rapid units, making it easier for drivers to quickly charge their cars while they shop. Nearly six-in-ten supermarket locations with charging facilities now offer these faster options.
The Supermarket Charging League
While Tesco remains the leader with the UK’s largest network of 1,409 charge points, discount giants Aldi and Lidl are closing the gap. Aldi, in partnership with Shell Recharge, has almost tripled its number of chargers, leapfrogging Morrisons to secure second place.
Morrisons still leads the way with the highest proportion of stores offering charging facilities, at 67%, but has seen minimal growth in new installations. Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s has doubled its network with the rollout of its own ultra-rapid ‘Smart Charge’ network, while Asda’s expansion has stalled.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said the growth is “extremely encouraging,” as a lack of charging options is a key concern for potential EV buyers. He stressed the importance of rapid chargers for drivers without off-street parking.
“These higher-powered charge points are a crucial piece of the puzzle, especially for drivers that either don’t want to spend long shopping, or that don’t have their own off-street parking space at home,” he said.
With the UK Government also investing in the charging network, the report suggests supermarkets are becoming a cornerstone of the country’s EV transition, making it more convenient than ever for drivers to go electric.