Gas stations are reinventing themselves as premium ev charging destinations

The familiar convenience store pit stop is getting an electric makeover. Major fuel retailers like Wawa and Sheetz are betting that fast EV chargers combined with clean facilities and quality food will keep them relevant as electric vehicles reshape American transportation. For these companies, the transition isn’t just about installing charging equipment—it’s about reimagining the entire refueling experience.

The strategy appears to be working. EV drivers are gravitating toward these upgraded stations not just for reliable charging, but for the amenities that make spending 20-30 minutes more pleasant. Phillip Stafford, a Tesla owner who drives throughout Richmond, Virginia for work, chooses charging locations based on power output and overall experience. “It has more watts, so it charges a little faster,” he explains, comparing competing stations. This shift in consumer behavior signals a broader transformation: instead of competing solely on fuel prices, retailers now must focus on creating appealing destinations for drivers with time to spend.

The economics are challenging but promising. Installing fast chargers can cost over $100,000 each, and electricity sales alone won’t cover the investment. The real profits come from getting drivers inside to buy food and merchandise—the same model that has sustained gas stations for decades. Research shows that EV chargers can boost store revenue, with some studies finding increases of 1-4 percent in customer spending.

However, the industry faces uncertainty as federal EV infrastructure programs experience political shifts. Despite these challenges, forward-thinking retailers continue expanding their charging networks, recognizing that as EVs become mainstream, the companies offering the best charging experience will capture tomorrow’s mobile consumers.