Be.EV has acquired Mer’s UK public charging network, adding more than 1,600 charging bays across over 450 sites to its portfolio. The Manchester-based company now operates more than 2,500 bays across over 680 locations nationwide.
The acquisition pushes Be.EV into the UK’s top 10 charging networks by rapid and ultra-rapid charging capacity.
Be.EV gains a stronger presence in southern England through the deal. The company previously focused on the North and Midlands but now offers nationwide coverage for EV drivers.
The combined network addresses the growing demand for faster, high-powered public charging. EV drivers can now access more charging options on a single network rather than managing multiple apps and payment systems.
Octopus Energy will power the majority of the enlarged network over time. This means customers across the UK can access Be.EV’s 39p/kWh subscription rate and its extended 7pm–7am off-peak pricing window.
Financial Backing and Strategy
Octopus Energy Generation’s Sky Fund holds a majority stake in Be.EV. The fund has raised more than £2.5bn from institutional investors to support renewable and energy infrastructure projects globally.
Asif Ghafoor, Be.EV’s chief executive, said the acquisition focuses on improving daily experiences for drivers.
“People don’t want to think about charging – they just want it to work, whenever and wherever they are. This deal brings the reliable Be.EV experience to more places, and the scale we gain helps keep public charging affordable.”
Mer retains its UK fleet charging operations, including around 500 workplace chargers. The European operator will refocus its public charging strategy on core European markets.
Kristoffer Thoner, Mer’s chief executive, said the transaction allows both companies to pursue their strategic priorities.
“This supports Be.EV’s growth while enabling Mer to sharpen its focus on Europe. Ultimately, we share the same goal, making EV charging simple and accessible.”
Integration and Expansion Plans
Be.EV expects the larger network to benefit from economies of scale. The company anticipates stronger procurement power, streamlined operations and lower overheads per site.
These efficiencies should accelerate Be.EV’s path to profitability while supporting organic expansion.
Be.EV doesn’t plan to close sites during integration. Instead, it will invest in targeted upgrades and equipment replacement where needed to enhance reliability and customer experience across the combined network.
The transaction excludes Mer’s UK fleet charging business. A streamlined operational structure will support the integration once complete.
The deal reflects the consolidation happening across the UK’s public charging sector as companies seek scale to compete effectively in the rapidly growing EV market.
