Holiday home name: Nuthatch Retreat
Location: Blakeney, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Charger model bought: Holiday Series 7kW
Date of installation: 2023
What made you decide to install an electric vehicle charging point at Nuthatch Retreat?
For us is was a no-brainer. We wanted to encourage and support more sustainable travel options and we also knew that local charging EV charging infrastructure was poorly resourced and very expensive. We can offer guests a more cost-effective charging option and the ability to do so whilst they’re relaxing and enjoying time together rather than needing to hangout in a carpark during their holidays.
At the start of your journey, where did you begin to look?
We’d already helped parents source and install an EV charger so had witnessed the frankly ugly and cumbersome chargers that were on the market and wanted an alternative that reflected the attention to design detail that we had given to all other aspects of the property. Nemia was aware of the thoughtfully designed products that Simpsons & Partners were developing through her work, and the fact that such quality and beautifully conceived pieces were being created and manufactured in the Cotswolds nearby meant that we didn’t need to look any further - it was a natural fit with our values and vision for the property.
Did you know what features you were looking for?
Ease of use, smart integration, flexibility for different vehicles to use the charging unit and of course something refined, thoughtful and beautiful that would tie in with the aesthetic of the building and environment.
How did you end up choosing the model?
It seemed to best suit our domestic setting and we also consulted a trusted electrician who has trained with Simpsons & Partners to decide on the best fit for us.
How easy was installation?
Very smooth! Andy Breeze had spent time with the Simpsons team so he knew his stuff and made it all very easy.
Do you think having ev chargers add value to your guests?
Absolutely. It makes the decision easy for guests who have have ev’s. It becomes a strong selling point for them choosing us asit makes their stay so much easier and smoother.
How do guests respond when they know there’s a charger available?
They’re always happy to know that all they need to do is bring their cable and plug in after a day exploring the area. No need to download apps, add credit to accounts etc. They like just being able to plug and we just send them a link to settle up.
Do you charge your guests for using the charger?
Yes, we can look at the app and easily calculate what they’ve used.
What impact has offering a dedicated ev charger at Nuthatch Retreat?
It’s subtle, but it’s a definite bonus for the business. For guests, there's no added work for them, when they’re meant to be having time out from all the planning and organising of daily life. None of the planning where to charge and guessing or praying that said charger will actually work en route. It’s peace of mind for guests and easy for us to work with.
Thanks Nemia.
Nemia runs Nuthatch Retreat, a 2-bedroom holiday home in the Forest of Dean.
