7-Eleven rolls out proprietary EV charging network
7-Eleven intends to build one of the largest and most compatible electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging networks of any North American retailer.
The convenience retailer is launching 7-Charge, a new, proprietary EV charging network and app at several locations in Florida, Texas, Colorado, and California. 7Charge sites allow customers to charge any EV make and model compatible with CHAdeMO or Combined Charging System (CCS) plug types (drivers will need a CCS or CHAdeMO adapter.
In addition, 7-Eleven offers a 7Charge app which provides a seamless charging and payment experience. Customers can download the app from the App Store, Google Play, or the 7-Eleven e-commerce site.
"For over 95 years, 7-Eleven has innovated to meet our customers' needs – delivering convenience where, when and how they want it," said Joe DePinto, president and CEO at 7-Eleven. "Now, we are innovating once again to meet our customers' where they are by expanding our business to provide EV drivers convenience of the future...today."
Once the network's expansion is complete, 7-Eleven says it will have one of the largest and most compatible fast-charging networks of any retailer in North America. The company plans to provide 7Charge charging stations across its entire portfolio of store banners, including Speedway and Stripes stores.
7-Eleven evolves store offerings
7-Eleven is trying to expand its store experience beyond what customers might typically expect from a convenience retailer. In 2022, the company opened the latest version of its “evolution” store format, which the c-store giant introduced in 2019.
The newest version of the evolution format, which offers products, services and other features customized to the neighborhood, offers customizable beverage options, a premium cigar humidor and a “Wine Cellar” with an enhanced and expansive selection of wine.
It also houses a Laredo Taco Company restaurant. Unlike other Laredo outposts, the new location features an extended covered patio with outdoor seating for customers. Other store features include a self-serve espresso machine where 7-Eleven will test specialty items such as cold foam and caramel macchiato.
All Evolution Stores include a restaurant concept. But no two locations are exactly alike as the retailer continues to tweak the design and product mix based on customer feedback and shopping habits.
Based in Irving, Texas, 7-Eleven Inc. operates, franchises and/or licenses more than 13,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to 7-Eleven stores, the company operates and franchises Speedway, Stripes, Laredo Taco Company, and Raise the Roost Chicken and Biscuits locations.