UDF Adds DC Fast Chargers at Six Ohio Stores via NEVI Funding
United Dairy Farmers will install its first DC fast chargers at six Ohio locations starting in early 2027, using federal NEVI grants and integrating charging with its U-Drive Plus loyalty program.
United Dairy Farmers is adding its first DC fast chargers at six of its 170 Ohio stores, with openings expected to begin in early 2027. The family-owned ice cream and convenience chain secured grants for all six sites through Ohio's National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program.
UDF applied for NEVI funding for six locations across Greater Cincinnati and Columbus and was awarded all six. The company worked alongside Electric Era, the Ohio Department of Transportation, and utility partners on the project.
Chargers will use Electric Era’s battery-backed technology
UDF plans to use Electric Era’s 400-kW chargers to meet Ohio's NEVI guidelines. The technology combines grid electricity with onsite batteries. This approach reduces peak demand on the local grid and supports fast charging in areas where electrical capacity is limited. Electric Era's proprietary software optimizes power delivery from both sources.
Locations span Hilliard, Lebanon, Mason, Maineville and two Cincinnati sites
The six selected stores are among UDF's newest locations. They offer food, indoor and outdoor seating, and wifi. Stores were chosen based on projected charging demand, proximity to major highways, accessibility, and overall customer experience.
The specific locations are:
| City/Town | Address |
|---|---|
| Hilliard | 5171 Riggins Road |
| Lebanon | 890 Columbus Avenue |
| Mason | 5261 Kings Mills Road |
| Maineville | 6643 OH-48 |
| Cincinnati | 11610 Lebanon Road |
| Cincinnati | 5275 Beechmont Avenue |
Charging ties into U-Drive Plus loyalty program with credits and rewards
Charging stations will integrate with UDF's U-Drive Plus loyalty program. Members will be able to redeem loyalty credits toward charging sessions. Guests can earn additional charging credits by making qualifying purchases inside UDF stores. The integration is also designed to provide opportunities for personalized rewards, including promotions on food and beverages.
Jim Dwenger, UDF's head of retail, said the move aligns with the company's philosophy. "We’ve always believed UDF should evolve alongside our guests, and this is another step in doing that."
The company will monitor charging demand, customer behavior, and engagement with store amenities and loyalty offers at these sites. This data will help inform future decisions.
Openings expected in early 2027 with staggered rollout
UDF anticipates the first chargers will come online in early 2027. The installation and launch for each location will be staggered. The company will announce individual opening dates as the chargers become operational. UDF will use customer feedback and demand patterns from these initial sites to help guide any future expansion of its charging network.
