Key Takeaways
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As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to increase, so does demand for reliable public EV charging. This shift affects the many independent fuel retailers and convenience stores that rely on in-store sales to remain in business. Under the pressures of already thin gasoline margins and changing driver needs, EV charging strategies are becoming increasingly important for fuel retailers to retain their existing customers and stay competitive. As more drivers switch to EVs, they will expect convenient access to charging when they stop for food, beverages, and other services. This makes EV charging an essential offering for today’s retailers.
While EV charging is now a necessity, electric car charging stations also present a business opportunity to improve long-term performance. Retailers can generate revenue from charging sessions, increase in-store transactions during longer dwell times, and participate in utility programs that reward flexible energy use. These monetization strategies help offset high energy costs and contribute to a more profitable operating model. With the right approach, EV charging becomes a needed service that can also future-proof your business in the era of electric mobility.
The Electric Car Charging Business Opportunity for Fuel Retailers and C-Stores
EVs could account for more than half of global passenger vehicle sales by 2035. As this shift accelerates, customer behavior is changing. Growing EV demand is expected to displace an additional one million barrels of oil per day by 2026—directly impacting the independent convenience stores and retailers that rely on traditional fuel revenue.
Most gas stations operate on razor-thin margins. The average markup on a gallon of gas is about 35 to 40 cents (USD). After expenses, a retailer earns about a third of that in profits before taxes. Continuing to depend on gasoline sales alone presents a lasting financial challenge for these small businesses. In markets where EVs dominate, total profits for fuel and convenience retailers could decline 30% by 2035.
Fuel retailers and c-stores are a great match to support and benefit from EV charging. They own valuable real estate in convenient locations and offer the amenities drivers want during charging sessions. Businesses that install EV chargers typically see a 4% increase in foot traffic and 5% increase in revenue, in addition to fostering a positive reputation, meeting sustainability goals, and other advantages from their diversification.
Building Profitable EV Charging Strategies
Many retailers exploring how to start an EV charging business begin by assessing the factors that directly influence charging demand and site performance. When developing a profitable EV charging strategy, fuel retailers and convenience stores typically start with a few key considerations that directly influence charging demand and revenue potential. These include:
- Location: Is your site easy to access and already a natural stop for drivers along highways, commuter routes, or busy community areas?
- Traffic patterns: When do customers visit most often, and how can charger availability align with existing traffic flow to maximize usage?
- Dwell time: How long do customers typically stay, and how can longer charging sessions lead to greater in-store spending?
Thinking about how to integrate EV charging into existing business models can also strengthen profitability. For example, charging sessions can complement retail sales, support loyalty programs, and attract new customers. Partnerships with utilities, charging networks, automakers, and manufacturers can further reduce upfront costs, improve charger utilization, and provide access to incentives or energy programs that lower operating expenses. Together, these strategies help retailers deploy charging in a way that improves continued revenue and growth.
How Do EV Charging Operators Make Money?
Many retailers ask: is the EV charging station business profitable? The truth is that fuel retailers and c-stores can make money as EV charging operators in a variety of ways.
| Revenue Stream | How It Works |
| Direct charging fee | Revenue is earned from drivers paying per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or through session-based pricing. Some retailers also offer subscription plans for frequent users. |
| Ancillary revenue | Longer dwell times as drivers charge result in increased in-store purchases. Many retailers see added sales from snacks, drinks, and other quick-stop items. |
| Advertising and sponsorships | Income is generated from digital signage on chargers or brand placement on the equipment. Sites may partner with nearby businesses to feature local promotions. |
| Data monetization | Charger and customer data can improve loyalty programs and create targeted offers. Additional insights can also support strategic partnerships. |
Profitable EV charging strategies include understanding cost structures and expected return on investment (ROI). Installation, hardware, grid upgrades, and energy costs can vary widely, so payback periods are closely tied to utilization and revenue stream mix.
Some retailers may see stronger returns from charging fees, while others from in-store transactions or partnerships. Utility or government incentives can also improve ROI. Aligning revenue opportunities with cost-effective energy management helps retailers build a charging strategy that fosters long-term results.
Reduce TCO with Smart Charging – CapEx and OpEx
Four Best Practices for EV Charging Deployment
Deploying EV charging successfully requires a clear approach that balances customer needs, site characteristics, and operational considerations. The following best practices can help fuel retailers and convenience stores establish EV charging strategies that enable profitability:
- Set a pricing strategy that aligns with costs and customer expectations.
Retailers may choose per-kWh or session-based pricing depending on local rules and driver behavior. Clear pricing builds trust and supports repeat use. - Select charger types that match your site’s use case.
Highway and high-volume locations often benefit from DC fast chargers, while Level 2 chargers may be adequate for sites where customers typically stay longer. Consider your installation budget and the available site capacity when planning. - Prioritize a reliable and convenient customer experience.
Ensure payment is simple and charging begins immediately—without extra steps. Reliable equipment and integration with loyalty programs or charging apps can also ensure seamless charging. - Support sustainability goals and meet regulatory requirements.
EV charging can support sustainability targets by reducing emissions and enabling cleaner transportation. Retailers also need to comply with permitting, accessibility, and safety requirements when deploying charging infrastructure.
Together, these EV charging best practices help retailers implement EV charging strategies that attract drivers while managing costs and contributing to profitable operation.
Understanding EV Charging Station Business Profitability
Profitable EV charging strategies focus on keeping chargers in use while managing operating costs. Reliability plays a major role in consistent sessions, and energy management helps retailers control expenses. Many sites also benefit when charging activity leads to additional in-store sales. Together, these factors serve as key profitability drivers.
Seeing the potential for gains and changing driver behavior, major fuel and convenience retailers, including 7-Eleven, BP, Circle K, and Shell, are leading the charge by expanding their charging networks as part of a broader shift in how they serve customers. These companies recognize the limits of traditional fuel margins and view charging as a way to strengthen overall site performance.
As EV adoption grows, demand for public charging will increase. Retailers that create an EV charging strategy for higher usage, dependable service, and changing customer needs will be better able to participate in the transition to electric mobility.
Conclusion
EV charging strategies are imperative for fuel retailers and convenience stores as customer expectations shift and traditional fuel margins weaken. Acting now allows retailers to establish strong EV charging strategies that meet future demand and improve profitability. Those who take early steps to plan their approach and identify the right partners will be better prepared to meet the growing number of drivers who rely on public charging, as well as position their businesses for sustained success.
