Careers
Purpose in action
Our brands Smart Charge

Smart Charge is on the move: 60 million fossil-free miles and we’re just getting started

15 May 2025

At Sainsbury’s, we’re not just helping customers eat better, we’re helping them drive better too. In just over a year, our Smart Charge network has powered more than 60 million fossil-free miles across the UK¹. That’s cleaner air, fewer emissions and a big step forward for low-carbon travel.

And we’re only just getting started.

Charging while you shop

Launched in early 2024, Smart Charge is our ultra-rapid EV charging service designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life. With 150kW–300kW chargers now live at 75+ Sainsbury’s stores, drivers can top up in as little as 30 minutes, all while grabbing dinner or doing the weekly shop.

It’s fast, simple and powered by 100% renewable electricity. No subscriptions. No app downloads. Just park, plug in and go.

“Smart Charge is what EV charging should be, fast, simple and stress-free. It’s everything we needed.” –  EV driver, Greater Manchester

Built for drivers, backed by data

We launched Smart Charge to tackle the biggest barriers to EV adoption: slow charging and unreliable infrastructure. Research showed that 94 per cent of EV drivers prefer to charge with a single trusted brand and we’re proud to be earning that trust.

Whether it’s a quick top-up during the school run or a full charge before a road trip, Smart Charge is helping customers travel with confidence.

A little extra joy: Win while you charge

To celebrate our first year, we ran a summer giveaway, offering drivers the chance to win one million Nectar points, just by plugging in at any participating Smart Charge location.

The campaign ran in stores, on digital screens and across social and it was a brilliant way to thank our customers, mark the milestone, and show how Smart Charge fits right into the Sainsbury’s experience.

What we learned

The response to Smart Charge and to our first customer campaign has been energising. Here’s what stood out:

  • Customers love the convenience of charging while they shop
  • Simplicity matters - no apps, no fuss, just plug in and go
  • There’s real appetite for rewards that make sustainable choices feel even better
  • Most importantly, when EV charging is easy, clean and rewarding, more people are ready to make the switch

What’s next?

Smart Charge is expanding fast and so is our ambition. We’re rolling out new locations across the country, making ultra-rapid EV charging more accessible than ever.

As part of our wider Plan for Better, it’s one more way we’re helping customers make low-carbon choices without compromise and keeping joy at the heart of the journey.

Discover how Smart Charge is powering fossil-free miles across the UK.

Find out more about Smart Charge