Kroger to Install 225 Electric Car Charging Stations

CINCINNATTI -- The Kroger Co. plans to expand the number of electric vehicle charging stations it offers by installing more than 200 Level 2 quick- charge stations and 25 DC Fast Chargers across its key markets.

Working with ECOtality Inc., this multimillion-dollar expansion will bring the total number of Blink chargers at Kroger supermarkets to nearly 300.

“As plug-in electric and hybrid cars are becoming more popular with our customers, we are pleased to offer the convenience of electric vehicle charging stations at more of our stores in markets with the highest demand,” said Kroger spokesperson Keith Dailey.

Kroger will invest $1.5 million to install the charging stations at 125 locations in markets including Phoenix, San Diego and Los Angeles. These new additions will join the 60 charging stations the company already installed in Oregon and Washington, as well as 14 stations in Texas.

“Retailers across the country are quickly realizing the benefits of installing our Blink chargers," said Ravi Brar, CEO of San Francisco-based ECOtality. “Independent research shows that Blink cardholders routinely reward these establishments with more time in their stores and repeat business. Kroger not only recognizes this value, but continues to show its commitment to be a leader in sustainability for the food retail industry.”

Cincinnati-based Kroger operates 2,424 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 31 states.