The coffee chain says the EV rollout marks a significant milestone in its sustainability efforts as it seeks to lead the Malaysian retail industry towards a decarbonised future
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Starbucks operates approximately 230 outlets in Malaysia via its franchise partner Berjaya Food Berhad | Photo credit: Starbucks Malaysia
Starbucks Malaysia has partnered with energy-focused holding company Yinson GreenTech to launch the first phase of electric vehicle (EV) friendly stores across the country.
The coffee chain, which operates approximately 230 outlets in Malaysia via its franchise partner Berjaya Food Berhad, said 23 charging stations have been installed at 17 Starbucks stores across the country during the first phase of the project.
A launch ceremony was held at Starbucks Eco Grandeur drive-thru outlet at Bandar Puncak Alam during which both companies pledged to continue exploring suitable locations for further rollout of EV infrastructure at Starbucks locations.
The Starbucks charging facilities will offer either AC (22kW) or DC (50kW) units, with charging initiated via the chargEV mobile app. chargEV is Malaysia’s largest public charging network with more than 400 chargers.
From 1 November 2022, Starbucks customers who are active chargEV members charging their EVs at one of the 17 Starbucks stores can enjoy up to 50% off their first beverage purchased in-store. The promotion is valid for 12 months.
“Charging your car should be as seamless as ordering a cup of coffee, and now it can be. As a company, we have always been passionate about protecting our planet and driving innovation to enhance the Starbucks experience for our customers. With the inclusion of EV chargers in our stores, it represents a significant milestone in our sustainability efforts as a company, and we hope will lead the retail industry towards a decarbonised future for Malaysia,” said Sydney Quays, Managing Director, Starbucks Malaysia.
Starbucks has a target of reducing its global carbon footprint by 50% by 2030 and views the introduction of EV charging facilities as key to becoming a resource positive company.
In August 2022 the first EV charging points were installed in the US state of Utah as part of the Seattle coffee giant’s rollout of chargepoints along a 1,350-mile route between the Colorado Rockies and its headquarters in Seattle.