LCP, the national commercial property and investment company, part of M Core, has signalled its commitment to boosting the number of electric vehicle (EV) charging points at its retail sites with a partnership deal with PoGo.
The deal will see PoGo, the recently launched ultra-rapid EV ChargePoint Operator (CPO), install some 329 ultra-rapid DC charging units (each with two connectors) at 89 strategic retail developments in England, Scotland and Wales across the LCP and Evolve managed portfolios.
Each of the installations will be fully funded by PoGo, helping to further accelerate the rollout of the UK’s EV charging infrastructure.
James Buchanan, group managing director of LCP Group, said: “Over the past couple of years we have installed 78 rapid EV charging points in 36 of our locations but working with PoGo will enable us to quadruple our EV charging offer, which means customers to our retail sites will have access to 329 safe and convenient chargers, providing a charging solution to 658 EV customers. It is a young company, but we are impressed with its ambitions and are confident PoGo will help us to meet our responsibilities.
“We understand only too well that the UK needs a good infrastructure of EV chargers, so we are playing our part in getting the country ready for a nationwide network for drivers.”
Work is due to begin in Q1 2024 and is expected to take 18 months to complete.
Stuart Douglas, managing director of PoGo, believes the deal with LCP will better support an electric future by providing ultra-rapid charging at key retail locations: “This agreement is a perfect example of two organisations coming together to deliver a shared ambition, getting the right infrastructure in the right place, to serve the right people.”
Central to each of the new installations will be the PoGo Touch – with a power range of 50-600kW, this unit offers the fastest charging speeds of any charger currently in the UK. It also offers an impressive 32-inch touch screen to display tariff and payment instructions as well as providing a platform for local retailers to promote in-store discounts and other incentives.
Douglas said PoGo was chosen not only for its technology, but also for the professionalism and agility it demonstrated from the very start: “Proven reliability, both of our technology and our operational delivery, were key to securing this exciting partnership,” he added.
“While we are a young business, we have an established pedigree and are financially well-invested by our parent company, making us the perfect choice for LCP and other similarly engaged landowners and management businesses.”
Daniel Rainsden, property cost controller for LCP, added: “We are thrilled to embark on this significant venture with PoGo, contributing to the expansion of the EV charging infrastructure in the UK. LCP recognises the importance of sustainable practices and believes in playing a pivotal role in fostering a cleaner air environment. This initiative aligns with our commitment to community well-being, providing enhanced convenience for EV users throughout the UK. We are confident that this collaboration will not only meet the growing demand for EV charging but also contribute positively to the communities surrounding our retail developments.”
