Chicken and charging: Bojangles installs its first EV charging station

Bojangles, the popular chicken restaurant chain, has taken its first step towards supporting electric vehicle (EV) drivers by installing its inaugural EV charging station at a Savannah, Georgia location. This move follows the company’s 2025 announcement to equip a significant portion of its 800 company-owned and franchised outlets with EV charging infrastructure. The initiative aims to provide convenient charging options for customers while they enjoy the brand’s signature menu offerings. The project was developed in collaboration with XLR8 America and Energy and Environmental Design Services, resulting in bright yellow Bojangles-branded charging stations that will be easily recognisable to EV drivers. The company has indicated that the Savannah site is just the beginning of a wider rollout, with plans to introduce both Level 2 and Level 3 chargers at multiple restaurants across various markets. However, specific details regarding the timeline and locations for future installations remain limited at this stage. Richard Del Valle, Bojangles’ Chief Information Officer, highlighted the strategic value of integrating EV charging with the dining experience. He emphasised that providing charging facilities transforms the waiting time into an opportunity for customers to relax, refuel themselves, and enjoy a meal, thereby enhancing the overall convenience of owning an electric vehicle. This approach reflects a growing trend among businesses seeking to accommodate the increasing number of EV users. Looking ahead, Bojangles’ commitment to expanding its EV charging network could have broader implications for the fast-food industry, signalling a shift towards more sustainable and customer-friendly services. As EV adoption continues to rise, the availability of charging infrastructure at popular dining venues may become a key factor in consumer choice. The company’s evolving strategy will be closely watched by both industry observers and electric vehicle enthusiasts alike.