B&Q and RAW Charging launch ultra-rapid EV charging network

Home improvement retailer B&Q is to offer electric vehicle charging at outlets across the country.

RAW Charging, a chargepoint operator specialising in the retail and leisure sectors will invest £11m in high-power, ultra-rapid EV charging hubs at B&Q locations across the UK.  

The ultra-rapid charging points help make it easier for EV drivers visiting B&Q to keep their vehicles charged while they’re shopping for their home improvement projects. 

As well as high-power DC charging, the bays are spacious and include longer dwell-time options so customers can take their time while they shop. 

The DC rapid and ultra-rapid charging bays will be installed at up to 26 B&Q stores across England and Wales over the next 12 months. Grid upgrades and high-voltage connections will be delivered by RAW where required. 

The first wave of installations is already underway with charging bays installed at B&Q Cheltenham, B&Q Sidcup, B&Q Boston, B&Q Stanmore and B&Q Galashiels. 

Once live, customers can access the network via contactless payment and all major EV charging apps.

Kingsley Mack, director of property, B&Q, said: “B&Q is committed to reducing our impact on the environment and to helping our customers to live more sustainably. Working with RAW Charging, we’re helping to make it easier for our customers to charge their electric cars and vans by offering ultra-fast, convenient, high-quality EV charging points.” 

Neil Broadbank, chief commercial officer at RAW Charging, commented: “By integrating high-quality EV charging into these locations, the partnership supports both economic productivity and the UK’s transition to cleaner transport.

“Tradespeople and commercial vehicles are central to the UK economy, and they need charging that is reliable, fast and located where it fits naturally into their day. 

“This roll-out is about more than installing chargers – it’s about powering productivity, supporting the transition to electric vans, and connecting destinations with the infrastructure that drivers can trust.”