Be.EV partners with JW Lees to install ultra-rapid EV chargers, offering pub-goers in the North-West convenient charging options across seven locations.
Social spaces present a prime opportunity to expand EV charging infrastructure.
Brewer and pub operator JW Lees has partnered with national charge point operator Be.EV will introduce ultra-rapid EV charging bays across seven pub sites in the northeast of the UK.
The innovative partnership will see a US$2.2m investment from Be.EV will install 22 ultra-rapid charging bays and upgrade existing chargers to meet the growing demand for quick and convenient EV charging. With the installation, Be.EV and JW Lees are set to transform the pub-going experience for EV drivers in the region.
Be. EV’s research highlights that 78% of EV drivers consider it “essential” to have charging points in convenient locations, highlighting the potential impact of this initiative.
The new chargers are strategically located to serve not only local EV drivers but also many patrons who may need a quick charge while visiting a JW Lees pub.
Enhancing the charging experience across iconic locations
The first installations are live and operational at JW Lees locations, including The Urmston in Stretford, The Millgate in Failsworth, The Aviator in Stockport, The Bluebird Inn in Balderstone and the Duke of Gloucester in Crewe.
By introducing ultra-rapid chargers, these locations are equipped to serve the needs of approximately 12,500 local EV drivers, making these pub stops convenient charging hubs for residents and travellers alike.
The Aviator in Stockport has significantly upgraded from four fast-charging bays to six ultra-rapid charging bays. Unlike standard fast chargers, which take six to eight hours to charge an EV fully, these ultra-rapid chargers add up to 165 miles of range in just 20 minutes.
The shorter charging times make them ideal for pub visitors who want to top up while enjoying a meal or drink, setting a new standard for the hospitality sector.
A model for the hospitality industry
The partnership between Be.EV and JW Lees serves as a template for other hospitality brands, particularly in light of new regulations that mandate EV charging points in non-residential buildings with more than 10 parking spaces by collaborating with Be.EV, JW Lees, adheres to these standards and gains a sustainable revenue stream.
Be.EV funds both the installation and maintenance of the chargers and shares a portion of the revenues with JW Lees, which is particularly beneficial for pubs facing financial challenges.
JW Lees operates across 150 pubs in the North West and North Wales; thus, the partnership strengthens Be. EV’s presence is part of the region’s most significant public EV charging network.
Following the model of brands like Decathlon, JW Lees sets an example for other businesses in the hospitality sector.
Supporting regional partnerships and sustainable infrastructure
“Regional partnerships are a cornerstone to the regeneration of our local areas and we’re proud to partner with such a well-established northern business,” comments Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV.
“Our charging hubs offer JW Lees pub-goers a convenient moment to charge their car and the chain is getting ahead of the curve by providing reliable, high-quality charging facilities for their customers so they can charge and drive responsibly.”
He adds: “Fast chargers are already becoming outdated and pub landlords need to consider upgrading their technology before they fall even further behind.”
A commitment to convenient and reliable charging
William Lees-Jones, Managing Director at JW Lees, highlights the importance of dependable charging options: “As an EV driver myself for the last five years, I know how important it is for drivers to have reliable, affordable and convenient EV chargers at pubs.
“At JW Lees, we are working with Be.EV to make our pubs best in class regarding EV provision.”
Looking ahead, Be.EV plans to install charging bays at two additional JW Lees pubs: The Pointing Dog in Cheadle and The Moss Trooper in Altrincham.
The new charging locations will be operational in early 2025, further expanding the reach of JW Lees’ EV infrastructure and establishing the brand as a leader in sustainable hospitality.
With the hospitality industry increasingly catering to the needs of EV drivers, the collaboration between JW Lees and Be.EV represents a forward-thinking approach to both business and sustainability.
By making EV charging accessible and convenient, JW Lees and Be.EVs are setting a new benchmark for service in the hospitality sector.
