Aldi has issued an announcement today, June 10, that will affect some customers who use the supermarket's car parks while doing their food shop. People who drive certain types of vehicles will notice an update to facilities in hundreds of car parks, which the store has described as "affordable, reliable and convenient."
New Partnership with Drax
Aldi shoppers with electric cars will soon find it "even easier" to charge their vehicles while picking up groceries, thanks to a new partnership with renewable energy company Drax. The supermarket has transitioned around 1,200 electric vehicle (EV) chargers at more than 250 stores across the UK over to Drax.
Drax is one of the UK's leading renewable energy companies, offering complete fleet electrification services and electric vehicle charging solutions for businesses. Aldi says the change will give "customers a quick and convenient way to top up during their shop."
Store Locations and Expansion Plans
Stores with new charging facilities now include Aldi's Diss store in Norfolk, alongside locations in Eastbourne, Durham and Yate near Bristol. In addition to upgrading its existing charging network, Aldi says it will also install chargers at around 20 new stores each year. This is part of its ongoing expansion plans, offering a mix of fast and rapid chargers. Aldi hopes this means customers can "choose the option that suits their journey" best.
Pricing and Payment Options
Aldi says charging will be competitively priced at 40p per kWh for fast charging and 62p per kWh for rapid charging. Customers can check availability, view charging costs and pay through the Charge Assist app, or use contactless card payment with no subscription needed.
Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said: "We're committed to making sustainable choices more accessible for our customers, and we know many are looking for affordable, reliable and convenient ways to charge their cars. By expanding EV charging at more of our stores, we're helping to make that easier – and offering great-value charging while they shop."
Sustainability and Government Targets
Aldi says the expansion reinforces the supermarket's long-term commitment to sustainability and supports the UK's transition to electric vehicles. The government is targeting the end of new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030. A statement on Gov.uk reads: "Government has commenced a consultation on phasing out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, driving forward the commitment made in our manifesto, supporting delivery of both our clean energy mission and our economic growth mission."
The previous government caused significant harm to the industry by moving goalposts on phase out dates, creating doubt in the minds of investors and boardrooms and putting at risk the billions of pounds of committed investment in the automotive sector and in the chargepoint sector. "Our plans will restore clarity for manufacturers, provide renewed confidence for charging infrastructure investors and give confidence to consumers considering making the switch. No new petrol or diesel cars will be sold after 2030. All new cars and vans will need to be 100% zero emission by 2035."
