Businesses: 6 reasons to install charging stations

With the rise of electric vehicles, more and more businesses are choosing to install charging stations on their premises. Whether you own a hotel, restaurant, shopping mall or other type of business, offering a charging solution can be a strategic asset. Here are six good reasons to equip your establishment with charging stations.

1. Attract and retain a growing customer base

The number of electric vehicle users continues to grow. By installing charging stations, you can make your business more attractive to this growing clientele. EV drivers are actively looking for places where they can recharge their vehicles while shopping, eating out or staying overnight in a hotel. By offering them this possibility, you increase the chances that they’ll choose your establishment over that of a competitor.

What’s more, customer loyalty also depends on customer satisfaction. If an EV driver knows that he can recharge his car easily at your place, he’ll come back more often and speak positively about your business to his friends and family.

2. Increase customer visit time and spending

When a customer recharges their vehicle, they usually have to stay on site for at least 30 to 60 minutes (if it’s a level 3 (fast) recharging station). This extra presence time can translate into higher expenses. For example:

•  In a restaurant, a customer recharging his EV could extend his meal and order an extra dessert or drink.
• In a shopping mall, customers will tend to browse more stores and make more purchases.
• In a hotel, the presence of charging stations can be a determining factor for travelers with an EV, who will prefer an establishment where they can recharge their vehicle overnight.

So, installing charging stations is not just an additional service, but also a lever for stimulating consumption and improving your bottom line.

3. Improve your company’s brand image

Integrating charging stations into your business sends out a strong message: you are a modern, committed and environmentally conscious company. This reinforces your image with consumers, who value eco-responsible initiatives.

Today’s consumers are increasingly attentive to the values of the companies they frequent. By demonstrating your commitment to the energy transition and the reduction of carbon emissions, you show that your business is in tune with today’s concerns.

What’s more, this initiative can be highlighted in your marketing communications:

•  Mention your charging stations on your website and social networks.
• Add your location to specialized applications like Circuit Électrique, PlugShare or ChargeHub to attract even more visitors.
• Install visible signage to inform passers-by and encourage customers to use the service.

4. Financial incentives and subsidies

In many regions and countries, the installation of charging stations is encouraged by financial incentives. In Quebec, there are a number of subsidies that can give you a financial boost. We invite you to find out more!

These financial incentives can cover a significant part of the installation costs, making the investment much more affordable for your company. What’s more, some charging solution providers offer packages tailored to businesses, with options for cost-sharing or profitability through charging sessions.

Before installing your charging stations, it’s a good idea to find out about the programs available in your area, to maximize the support available and reduce your initial investment.

5. Anticipating regulations and preparing for the future

The transition to electric vehicles is accelerating worldwide. Many governments are announcing the end of sales of gasoline-powered vehicles within the next few decades. As a result, the need for recharging infrastructure will only increase.

By installing charging stations now, you’ll get a head start on the competition, and comply with future environmental regulations that may require commercial establishments to be equipped with charging infrastructures.

Some building codes or municipal by-laws already require the installation of charging stations in new commercial or residential projects. By anticipating these changes, you can avoid additional costs associated with possible future upgrades.

6. Generate additional sources of income

In addition to generating additional income from increased traffic to your business, charging stations also enable you to generate additional revenue. The return on investment, especially for businesses near busy roads, can be very attractive. In fact, we’ve developed a calculator that lets you calculate the profitability of charging stations based on various parameters specific to your business. Ask us for the calculator now, so you can start generating extra income fast!

An attractive solution for your customers

Installing charging stations in your business is a strategic choice that offers many advantages: attracting and retaining a growing clientele, increasing customers’ visiting time and spending, reinforcing your brand image, taking advantage of financial aid and anticipating future regulations.

Whether you own a hotel, restaurant, shopping center or service business, offering a charging solution for electric vehicles can be a profitable and sustainable investment.

At BEQ Technology, we offer a wide range of products to meet all your charging needs. Whether you opt for Level 2 or Level 3 charging stations, our experts can advise and guide you through the process. Contact us, it’s time to go electric and make your business a must for EV drivers!