JW Lees Partners with Be.EV for Ultra-Rapid EV Charging: A £1.8 Million Leap Towards Sustainability

In an exciting move towards a greener future, the renowned brewer and pub operator JW Lees has teamed up with the national charge point operator Be.EV to install ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at its pubs. This significant investment of £1.8 million is set to transform the way patrons recharge their vehicles while enjoying their favourite brews.

Expanding EV Charging Infrastructure Across the North West

Be.EV is set to install 22 ultra-rapid charging bays at seven of JW Lees’ locations throughout the North West. This initiative not only enhances the existing charging infrastructure but also caters to the growing number of EV drivers looking for convenient charging options.

Current and Future Charging Locations

The following pubs have already had their charging stations activated:

• The Urmston (Stretford)
• The Millgate (Failsworth)
• The Aviator (Stockport)
• The Bluebird Inn (Balderstone)
• Duke of Gloucester (Crewe)

The Aviator has undergone a significant upgrade, increasing its capacity from four fast-charging bays to six ultra-rapid bays. This means that visitors can now add up to 165 miles of range in just a 20-minute stop, making it a perfect pitstop for EV drivers.

In early 2025, two more locations, The Pointing Dog (Cheadle) and The Moss Trooper (Altrincham), will also welcome new charging stations, extending the network even further.

Meeting the Needs of Local EV Drivers

With an estimated 12,500 local EV drivers frequenting these pubs, the installation of convenient charging stations is crucial. Research indicates that nearly 78% of EV drivers consider accessible charging points essential when choosing their stopovers.

Why This Matters

• Increased Footfall: With the pub industry facing economic pressures, installing charging points can significantly attract more customers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Recent regulations mandate that new non-residential buildings with over ten parking spaces must include EV charging facilities.

This partnership exemplifies how traditional establishments can adapt to modern needs while complying with regulations.

A Win-Win Partnership

The collaboration between JW Lees and Be.EV is not just about installing chargers; it’s also about creating a profitable environment for both parties. Be.EV is responsible for the installation and maintenance of the chargers, sharing a portion of the profits with the pub owners.

William Lees-Jones, Managing Director at JW Lees, highlighted the importance of reliable charging facilities: “As an EV driver myself for the last five years, I know how crucial it is for drivers to have accessible and efficient EV chargers at pubs. We are committed to making our establishments a top choice for EV provision.”

Conclusion: The Future of Sustainable Pub Culture

JW Lees’ investment in ultra-rapid EV charging is a bold step towards sustainability and reflects the changing landscape of consumer needs. As more drivers transition to electric vehicles, having reliable charging stations at convenient locations like pubs will become increasingly vital.

Are you excited about this initiative? Share your thoughts in the comments below! For more insights on sustainable practices, consider reading our piece on the rise of EV charging stations in hospitality.

For further information on UK regulations regarding EV charging, visit the official UK Government website.