Openreach partners with Sainsbury’s Smart Charge to power UK’s second-largest Fleet

Openreach, the UK’s largest digital network, has signed an agreement with Smart Charge , Sainsbury’s nationwide Electric Vehicle charging network, to provide its engineers with access to ultra-rapid charging hubs in 80 locations across the country.

The move makes it easier for engineers to keep their electric vans on the road, with access to reliable 150 kW chargers. Smart Charge hubs offer simple tap‑to‑pay pricing, Nectar points on every charge, and 24/7 support.

Openreach now has well over 6,000 electric vans out on the road and has already installed more than 3,500 home chargers for its engineers throughout the country. But with one in three engineers unable to install a home charger, and around half of its EV drivers relying primarily on public charging, this partnership provides a practical solution to help keep the fleet moving and more broadband customers connected.

The partnership also supports Openreach’s transition to a low-emissions fleet and is a key part of the company’s ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ strategy, which focuses on cutting carbon emissions, reducing waste, and protecting nature.

Judy O’Keefe, Director of Fleet at Openreach, said: “Partnerships like this make a real difference. Switching a fleet of our size to electric is a big job, and it only works if day-to-day charging is simple for our engineers – the people who are out on the road every day keeping the country connected. Reducing emissions across the fleet also brings real benefits for local communities, with cleaner air and less noise in the towns and villages we serve.”

“With this agreement, our engineers – particularly those who can’t install a home charger – have access to fast, reliable public charging at Sainsbury’s stores nationwide. They get competitive rates and earn Nectar points every time they plug in. It’s a simple, practical benefit that helps keep them moving and supports the high-quality service our customers expect.”

Emma Williams, Director of Commercial & Customer at Smart Charge said: ‘Partnering with Openreach is a fantastic example of how Smart Charge can make life easier for drivers who rely on their vehicles every day. Our ultra‑rapid hubs are easy to use and reliable, giving Openreach engineers the confidence that they can power up quickly and get back on the road in no time. With large sites meaning plenty of bays, Nectar points on every charge and the convenience of being located at Sainsbury’s stores, drivers can top up their vans while picking up lunch or grabbing a coffee. We’re proud to support one of the UK’s largest electric fleets and play a part in helping Openreach move towards a cleaner, low‑emissions future.”

This partnership, alongside Openreach’s £3 million investment in charging infrastructure, removes barriers to EV adoption and make the shift to an electric fleet faster, simpler and more affordable - supporting BT Group’s ambition to reach net‑zero carbon emissions across its operations by 2031.