Should fuel and convenience retailers be focused on the continued growth in the electric vehicle (EV) market in 2022? Yes, but maybe not in the way you might think.
Instead of viewing EVs as a threat, start seeing them as an opportunity to attract new customers to your business, especially if you’re worried about offsetting the potential loss of fuel fill-ups. But how can you maximize your real estate to leverage the potential EV upside?
Even if there’s still some debate about how long it will take for EVs to permeate the market, there’s really no argument against staying ahead of the curve. When you’re envisioning your EV strategy, remember that you have a major advantage in appealing to EV drivers: you’re already great at delivering convenience. It’s all about making tasks like a vehicle charge as convenient as possible for your customers.
The first step is to give them a compelling reason to stop at your site and then make an in-store visit. 2022 will be your chance to start testing some EV-focused programs, and here are some areas to consider:
- Make your in-store environment more inviting for longer visits—with guest Wi-Fi and comfortable sitting areas
- Upgrade your fresh foodservice offerings for guests who might want more than just a snack
- Inquire about partnering with EV brands on special promotions or creating your own unique branded offerings
You can always start small, but continue thinking of ways to transform your site into a true destination point for convenience — a trait that will make your business much more attractive to EV drivers.
You can thrive in today’s digital economy. Contact us today to learn how PDI can help you transform your business.