bp pulse has partnered with Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate Investments to roll out rapid and ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across 14 retail parks in the United Kingdom, the companies said, as charging providers increasingly focus on destinations embedded in daily consumer routines.
The first site under the agreement has gone live at Lyons Farm retail park in Worthing, with further installations planned in the coming months at locations including Castle Marina Retail Park in Nottingham, Fountains Retail Park in Tunbridge Wells and Jubilee Retail Park in Weymouth.
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Under the programme, sites designated for ultra-fast charging are expected to feature up to 10 charging bays combining ultra-fast and rapid units, while smaller locations will typically offer two rapid charging bays. The chargers are intended to serve a broad mix of private and commercial electric vehicles.
bp pulse said the rollout aligns with its strategy to expand fast-charging access beyond motorways and fuel stations, placing infrastructure at destinations where drivers already shop, eat and spend time. Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate said the initiative supports its long-term decarbonisation plans for its UK retail property portfolio.
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“We’re making it easier than ever for drivers to charge as part of their daily routines,” said Valerio Ferro, general manager at bp pulse. “Retail parks are places people already visit to shop, eat and meet, so adding reliable, high-speed charging enhances that experience.”
From the landlord’s perspective, the charging hubs are positioned as both a customer amenity and a sustainability measure. “Improving the provision for EV drivers is a key strand of our asset management strategy for the portfolio,” said Kannika Mall, asset manager for Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate in the UK. “It also serves as a further and important step in our pathway to net zero across the UK business by 2050.”
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The partners said additional retail park locations are under review for future phases of the programme, as demand for destination-based EV charging continues to grow alongside rising electric vehicle adoption in the UK.