The modern forecourt: How EV and retail have shaped the fuel station of today
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Once merely pit stops for refuelling, petrol filling stations (PFS) have undergone a significant transformation into dynamic retail hubs. The recent surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption has provoked a shift in modern forecourts, reshaping the layout and prolonging the dwell time at stations. With this new change in forecourt landscape, there is now the opportunity to develop new retail concepts and provide experiential solutions to support the refuelling experience.
From petrol pumps to EV charging, grab-and-go eating to big retail concessions, the forecourts of today have seen a huge change. The rising demand for these additional amenities has led to the need for innovative branding solutions to help redesign and reimagine these forecourts of the future.
EV Charging
At Astley, we have had the pleasure of supporting EV brands with the establishment of their EV charging estates, including Fastned, BP, Jet, and MFG. As EVs continue to flood the market, and with the country expanding its charging infrastructure, forecourts are adapting their facilities to cater to the needs of EV drivers, who typically spend 30 to 40 minutes at the station during a charge.
Rather than service stations being a place to buy quick essentials, they are now becoming retail hubs in which customers can dine, shop, and relax. From grocery shopping to in-store dining, working spaces and postal services, the modern forecourt offers much more than just fuel. Consequently, PFS retail spaces are expected to expand to over 10,000 sq. ft, reinforcing the steady demand for signage solutions.
Concessions
This expansion of floor space in PFS retail spaces has paved the way for renowned food and beverage brands. Providers such as Starbucks, Burger King and Costa have taken advantage of this opportunity to convert extra dwell time into a relaxing sit-down experience.
Supermarket collaborations with fuel sites also allow customers to do their weekly grocery shop whilst charging their cars, with brands such as M&S becoming prominent at roadside destinations. From fast-food chains to major grocery retailers, the forecourt is evolving into a one-stop-shop for not only fuel, but for a wide array of consumer goods.
Astley’s expertise
As forecourts embrace EV charging and evolve into multifaceted retail destinations, signage plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall customer experience. For over a decade, we have been aiding petroleum brands with their branded graphics, working with global brands such as JET , Texaco, BP, and ESSO, as well as prominent grocery chains like Sainsbury’s and The Cooperative.
The demand for branding solutions is ever-present in today’s forecourt as the technology and facilities continue to evolve and customer preferences change. Given our unique position in which we work with PFS brands as well as FMCG clients, our expertise encompasses extensive knowledge of retail brands as well as forecourt operations.
Offering industry design solutions for full rebrands, refreshes, maintenance, painting, valet services and specialist installation, Astley is the perfect partner to help support with your PFS brand graphics, from the charging point through to the grocery checkout.
