Giant Food has announced it has started installing electric vehicle charging stations that are free to use for EV drivers at locations offering them in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware. The brand is working with Volta to have 60 EV charging stations completed by the end of 2020 and 200 to be installed by mid-2021 as a part of Giant's sustainability initiative, according to the Giant Food press release.
"Providing our shoppers and communities free electric charging services is part of Giant's larger sustainability efforts," said Ira Kress, President of Giant Food, in a Giant Food press release. "We are excited to offer our customers who opt for electric cars the satisfaction of quick and free charging while they shop. It's a value for our shoppers that also benefits the environment."
According to the press release, all stores launched will have two Volta charging stations, which will feature the brand's high-resolution, two-sided, 55-inch high-definition displays. These screens will share in-store specials and promotions for Giant loyalty shoppers.
"We are proud to have been selected as the preferred provider of electric vehicle charging stations by Giant Food, a company whose commitment to a sustainable future aligns well with Volta's mission," said Scott Mercer, Founder and CEO, Volta, in the same news release. "We are working with Giant to deliver a seamless charging experience to their growing number of forward-thinking shoppers."
Giant Food's website also has more information on this new partnership. These new charging stations are already installed at the 6223 Baltimore National Pike, Catonsville, MD 21228 location, and coming soon to three other Maryland stores.
To begin using the charging stations, the brand has outlined three separate steps. These steps include:
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Download the Volta app, because it is required to charge at a Volta station
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Find a charging station. Customers can check the store list on Giant Food's website or use the Volta app to find one close to them
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Lastly, charge for free while shopping
Giant Food is constantly working to help its customers on their retail journey. This includes how they have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a statement on their website on May 27, 2020, even though it returned to normal shopping hours, it has still allotted a specific time for seniors and those with compromised immune systems, which is from 6 am to 7 am, and has alongside a statement from Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, has required face masks in all of their stores in Virginia.