California-based supermarket chain Gelson's has finalized a partnership with Rove, a developer and operator of full-service electric vehicle charging centers, to provide food and beverage services at each station. Rove will launch at an initial six locations in Southern California beginning this year, with 20 charging centers planned by 2026.
The concept, called ReCharge by Gelson's, will showcase a curated selection of food, beverages, and convenience items to Rove users and local customers. Offerings will include coffee service, single-serve and multipack beverages, and hot and cold snack and meal options like poke bowls and sushi, sandwiches and wraps, salads, charcuterie, and cheese plates. Dairy and frozen items will also be available alongside staples like bread and non-grocery items.
"We're excited for the Gelson's team and their new concept to join our full-service EV charging centers," said Rove CEO Nathan McDonnell in a statement. "From day one, we aimed to offer our customers fresh food alongside a superior charging experience. With ReCharge by Gelson's at Rove's centers, we are reimaging the public charging experience together, leaving EV drivers recharged in more ways than one.”
Rove's EV charging centers will feature 40+ ultra-fast EV chargers, a 24/7 lounge with restrooms and free Wi-Fi, and an eco-friendly car wash for added convenience in select locations. Every center will also include parking spots for gas vehicles for local customers.
"We are thrilled to join in partnership with Rove to launch this innovative new concept, bringing fresh and better-for-you offerings for people on the go across Southern California," said Gelson's president and CEO John Bagan in a statement. "Our new ReCharge by Gelson's locations will bring our premium food and beverage experience closer to many of our existing customers while also introducing us to an expanded audience."
Bagan noted that Gelson's has been moving to EVs and alternative fuel vehicles for its own company fleet and that the partnership is part of its larger sustainability goals.
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