Gelson’s Opens Convenience Store at Rove’s New EV Charging Site in California

Gelson’s Markets, the Encino-based grocery chain, has launched a new convenience store named ReCharge by Gelson’s at Rove’s inaugural full-service electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Santa Ana, California. The store officially opened today, marking a significant collaboration between Gelson’s and the EV charging center developer, Rove.

ReCharge by Gelson’s offers a variety of fresh food options, including coffee, espresso drinks, snacks, and locally made salads, sandwiches, and bowls.

“Opening this new concept is a milestone moment for us,” said Ryan Adams, President & CEO of Gelson’s. “After more than 70 years operating full-service markets, we’re excited to team up with Rove to share our premium food and beverage offerings with an expanded audience. Their support has been key in making this vision a reality. As we look to open more ReCharge locations in partnership with Rove, we’re focused on giving our existing customers and new ones more ways to access the quality products they’ve come to expect from us across Southern California.”

Gelson’s plans to build additional fresh market concepts at future Rove centers, with Rove aiming to open 10 full-service charging stations in Southern California by 2026.

Each Rove location features a comprehensive array of amenities, including an onsite market, eco-friendly car wash, complimentary vacuums with every charge, restrooms, a pup pad, and a 24/7 lounge equipped with indoor and outdoor seating, Wi-Fi, and power stations for charging electronics.

The Santa Ana charging center spans 1.3 acres and is strategically located at the intersection of 17th St. and Lincoln Ave. It boasts 40 direct current (DC) ultra-fast EV chargers powered by over 400 solar panels, equipped with various plug types:

• 28 North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs with capabilities of up to 250 kilowatts.
• 12 Combined Charging System (CCS) plugs with power ranging from 184 to 350 kilowatts, providing up to 200 miles of range in as little as 10 minutes.
• 2 CHAdeMO (CHArge de Move) plugs, primarily utilized by Japanese automakers like Nissan, Mitsubishi, KIA, and French brands such as Peugeot and Citröen.

Rove ensures onsite support during peak hours, along with 24/7 online assistance and after-hours security.

“Our team set out to create more than just a charging station. We designed a community destination, a place where our customers would feel at ease and supported,” said Bill Reid, chairman and CEO of Rove. “Whether you’re a local commuter or an EV-dependent business, we’re committed to providing a reliable, customer-centered and accessible experience.”