Landsec Brings in Partner to Roll Out Retail Portfolio EV Charging Network

Why It Matters

By embedding extensive, future‑ready EV infrastructure, Landsec enhances visitor experience and captures longer dwell times, while supporting the UK’s transition to low‑carbon transport. The scale of the project signals commercial real estate’s pivotal role in nationwide EV adoption.

Key Takeaways

• Landsec invests £24.5 m in EV charging across 28 sites
• RAW Charging will install 1,000 bays, half AC fast
• Bluewater to host UK's largest destination charging hub
• 20‑year partnership includes legacy charger upgrades
• EV infrastructure aims to extend shopper dwell time

Pulse Analysis

Retail centres are becoming critical nodes in the electric‑vehicle ecosystem, as drivers increasingly seek convenient charging while they shop. Industry analysts note that destination charging—where chargers are placed at high‑footfall locations—addresses range anxiety and encourages longer visits, directly boosting retail revenues. The UK’s EV market is projected to surpass 1 million new registrations annually by 2027, creating a surge in demand for reliable, fast‑charging points in city centres and suburban malls.

Landsec’s collaboration with RAW Charging leverages this trend by committing substantial capital to a network that blends AC fast and DC rapid technology. The focus on Bluewater, slated to become the nation’s largest destination hub, underscores a strategic push to turn shopping centres into mobility hubs. Upgrading legacy infrastructure ensures compatibility with next‑generation vehicles, while the 20‑year term provides stability for both parties, allowing economies of scale and consistent user experience across the portfolio. For retailers, the presence of high‑capacity chargers can increase dwell time, translate into higher spend per visit, and differentiate locations in a competitive market.

Beyond immediate commercial benefits, the partnership illustrates how property owners can accelerate the UK’s green transition. By integrating EV charging into everyday destinations, Landsec helps normalize electric mobility, reduces reliance on home‑based charging, and supports government targets for zero‑emission transport. As more developers adopt similar models, the cumulative effect could reshape urban planning, encouraging mixed‑use developments that prioritize sustainable infrastructure from the outset. This alignment of profitability and environmental stewardship positions Landsec as a forward‑looking leader in the evolving commercial real‑estate landscape.