Bojangles Pilots 'Charge + Dine' Model with First DC Fast-Charging Station in Savannah

The iconic Southern U.S. fried chicken chain Bojangles is expanding into the electric vehicle (EV) charging ecosystem. In May 2026, its first DC fast-charging hub opened at its store located at 4401 Ogeechee Road in Savannah, Georgia — marking not only Bojangles' debut in charging services but also the launchpad for its nationwide charging network.

Developed jointly by EV charging equipment provider XLR8 America and an energy and environmental design services firm — which handles installation and ongoing operations — the site reflects Bojangles' strategy to capitalize on the 'charge while you eat' trend. EV drivers typically spend 20–40 minutes per fast-charging session, aligning perfectly with a full meal cycle — especially during long-distance travel.

While Bojangles has not disclosed specific rollout timelines or final deployment targets, The New York Times reported in July 2026 that the company plans to install 85 DC fast chargers by early 2027. Previously, Bojangles announced that its second charging location would open at its Charlotte, North Carolina store later in 2026 — though no further site locations or schedules have been confirmed.

Frank O'Connor, CEO of XLR8 America, stated: "We're partnering to build a nationwide charging network that makes EV refueling effortless — and every stop truly worthwhile."

As retail, foodservice, and convenience businesses rapidly integrate charging infrastructure, quick-service restaurants are proving uniquely suited: high-frequency visits, mid-length dwell times, standardized real estate footprints, and established customer traffic make them ideal hosts for fast-charging network expansion. For Bojangles, this initiative represents both a service extension and a strategic commercial response to the era of electrified mobility.