First EV Chargers Installed At Large Restaurant Chain

Bojangles, a prominent US-based restaurant chain with around 800 locations across 23 states, has installed its first electric vehicle (EV) charging station, marking a significant step in expanding EV infrastructure within the hospitality sector. The initial installation, situated at a Savannah, Georgia outlet, features four charging ports, including a combination of Level 2 and Level 3 fast chargers. The company plans to roll out similar charging facilities across many of its other restaurants, signalling a broader commitment to supporting EV drivers. This development aligns with a wider trend in the US, where private sector investment is driving rapid growth in public EV charging infrastructure despite previous political resistance. Retail giants such as Walmart, Kroger, and Wawa have also been increasing their EV charger installations, often leveraging both federal funding and private capital. The expansion of charging points at popular venues like Bojangles highlights the evolving expectations of consumers, who now seek convenient charging options integrated with everyday activities such as dining. Richard Del Valle, Bojangles’ Chief Information Officer, emphasised the strategic value of EV charging as part of the customer experience, describing it as an opportunity to transform routine stops into meaningful breaks. He suggested that providing charging facilities allows customers to relax and recharge both themselves and their vehicles, thereby enhancing brand loyalty and modernising the chain’s service offering. This approach reflects a growing recognition that EV infrastructure can be a competitive advantage for businesses. The charging station in Savannah was developed in partnership with XLR8 America and Energy and Environmental Design Services, with XLR8’s CEO Frank O’Connor highlighting the synergy between convenient parking and charging. He described the concept as a “charge-and-dine” experience, where customers can top up their vehicle batteries while enjoying a meal. This collaboration aims to build a nationwide network of accessible EV chargers, making electric vehicle use more practical and attractive for everyday drivers. The increasing presence of EV chargers at retail and restaurant locations underscores the importance of infrastructure growth alongside rising EV sales. As private companies recognise the economic potential in supporting electric mobility, the expansion of charging networks is likely to accelerate, helping to overcome one of the key barriers to wider EV adoption. Bojangles’ initiative may encourage other hospitality chains to follow suit, contributing to a more comprehensive and user-friendly EV charging ecosystem across the US.