According to Zest, it will deploy chargers at both new and existing stores across the region, including at Co-op sites in Coventry, Nuneaton, Wellesbourne and Southam. There’s no word on hardware specifications yet; under its ‘ultra-rapid’ offering, the Leeds-based B Corp has installed 150 – 300 kW chargers at larger retail sites in the past, although this hasn’t been confirmed in the case of the new partnership.

Heart of England Co-op has said that the new charging infrastructure is being delivered as part of its commitment to “improving access to reliable public EV charging across the region” and “supporting more sustainable communities. John Bridges, head of property services at the co-operative, said: “This multi-year agreement is great news for our shoppers and members as the move to electric vehicles continues at pace. It’s also great news for the environment and reflects our commitment to support more sustainable communities. We have invested millions in green initiatives over the past few years, and the environment remains a major consideration in everything we do.”

Robin Heap, CEO of Zest, added: “Partnering with Heart of England Co-op allows us to bring reliable ultra-rapid EV charging to even more communities across the Midlands. By installing charging facilities at convenient retail locations, we’re making it easier for drivers to charge as part of their everyday routines while supporting the transition to cleaner transport.”

Zest provides charging infrastructure to a number of retailers across the UK, both big and small – but works particularly closely with Co-operative grocery networks. One of its largest partnerships is a multi-year agreement with Central Co-op, which has seen Zest open charging facilities at stores across the Midlands, Lancashire and East Anglia. For example, in October 2025, the CPO announced plans to install EV chargers at 20 Central Co-op stores. (It’s worth noting that, despite the shared branding and membership of the broader UK Co-operative network, Central Co-op and Heart of England Co-op are entirely separate commercial businesses, with the latter being a smaller regional co-op society based out of coventry.)

zest.uk.com