BP Pulse has opened its first EV charging hub as part of its exclusive agreement to roll out charging points at M&S stores across the UK.

The hub, which is located at the retailer’s Cheshunt store, features 10 EV charging bays, including four ultra-fast 150kW and six rapid 50kW.

One of the ultra-fast charging bays is extra-wide, ensuring customers who need it have additional room to charge.

BP pulse UK CEO Akira Kirton said: “The opening of our EV charging hub at the M&S store in Cheshunt is a huge milestone; the first of a strategic rollout programme. This is a fantastic option for M&S shoppers, enabling them to top up their EV battery while they enjoy shopping in a brilliant retail destination.

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“Convenience is a hugely important part of our aim to develop the UK’s best on-the-go charging network, and this is a compelling example of how we’re offering fast and reliable EV charging where it is convenient for our customers.”

The rollout with M&S marks part of BP pulse’s strategy to significantly expand its charging network and support the growth of the UK’s EV infrastructure.

M&S director of operations Sacha Berendji added: “Investing in our stores to make them bigger, better, brighter destinations for the broadest range of customers, including more family shoppers, is a key part of our strategy to ‘Reshape M&S for Growth’.

“EV charging will become an increasingly important part of the store offer. It’s also an important part of our ‘Plan A’ roadmap to net zero by 2040.”

It comes as M&S is set to open 10 new convenience stores this year and renew up to 50 more as it aims to further grow its £1bn convenience business.