Electric vehicle charging is moving away from petrol stations and showing up where people actually want to spend time. Pubs and restaurants are stepping up as popular destination charging spots, letting EV drivers top up while they eat or relax—good for guests, great for business. With over 20% of new cars registered in 2024 now electric, and that number rising fast, hospitality sites can’t really afford to ignore this shift.

Unlike those rapid charging hubs you find on motorways, destination charging means slower 7-22kW chargers at places where people hang out for a while—think restaurants and pubs. These chargers fit right in with how long folks typically stay for a meal.

For pubs and restaurants, installing charging points isn’t just about serving existing customers. It actually turns them into prime stops for EV drivers looking for charging-friendly venues, and it’s a solid move toward sustainability.

The Emergence of Destination Charging in Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs and restaurants across the UK are quickly adding EV charging infrastructure to attract the growing crowd of electric vehicle drivers. These venues benefit from longer customer visits and increased spending, all while offering a much-needed service.

Why Hospitality Venues Are Embracing EV Charging

For many in hospitality, EV charging has become a fresh revenue stream and a way to draw in new guests. Around 75% of venues are adding charging stations to boost income and appeal to guests who care about the environment.

Pubs can tap into revenue from the day their chargers are switched on. For many, destination charging is now seen as essential, not just a nice-to-have. Installing chargers helps venues stay ahead as more drivers switch to electric.

Landlords and managers are jumping in early, making sure they’re first on the map for EV drivers and building loyalty with guests who’ll come back for reliable charging.

Customer Benefits: Convenience and Extended Dwell Time

Destination charging lets drivers top up their cars while they eat or catch up with friends—no need for a separate charging stop. This makes life simpler and takes a bit of the stress out of owning an EV.

On average, EV drivers spend about 50 minutes per charge, and up to 45% prefer destination charging over rapid hubs. That extra time often means more food, more drinks, and a better bottom line for the venue.

Chargers at 7-22kW are just right for how long people typically spend eating out. It’s a natural fit.

The Role of Charging Infrastructure in Attracting High-Value Customers

EV drivers tend to have more disposable income and care about sustainability—exactly the guests most venues want. They’ll often check apps like Zap-Map to find places with charging before deciding where to eat.

Having charging points shows a venue is modern and cares about the planet, which really matters to younger guests and anyone looking for eco-friendly options.

Longer visits mean higher spending, whether that’s another drink, dessert, or just sticking around for a bit of entertainment. Plus, once EV drivers find a spot that works for them, they tend to come back.

Business Impact and Practical Considerations for Installing EV Chargers

Pubs and restaurants have a real opportunity here—from boosting revenue with longer visits to strengthening their sustainability image. Of course, getting started takes some planning—think infrastructure, funding, and how you’ll run the chargers day-to-day.

Revenue Opportunities From Customer Dwell Time

Destination chargers naturally encourage guests to stay longer. Most EV drivers are plugged in for 30-90 minutes, which lines up perfectly with a meal or a couple of drinks.

Venues can make money by charging for the electricity, or they might offer free charging to diners as a perk—either way, it gets people spending more time (and money) on site. With voltshare, site owners can set up tiered pricing for charging, so staff or regulars get a discount.

With EVs expected to make up 40% of car sales by 2030, getting in early on charging infrastructure is just smart business. You’ll catch the wave as more drivers switch to electric.

Sustainability and Brand Value in the Hospitality Sector

Adding EV chargers boosts a venue’s green credentials and stands out to eco-minded guests. People increasingly choose where to eat or drink based on sustainability, so visible charging infrastructure can tip the scales in your favour.

Charging points show you’re thinking ahead and taking responsibility. That helps set you apart, especially if you’re after customers who care about their impact on the environment.

It’s also a great marketing angle. Charging stations become part of your brand’s story, showing up in listings and social posts that attract EV drivers searching for their next stop.

If you want to get ahead of the curve, contact our team and set up a free site survey for your venue.