The mega coffee chain, Starbucks, is planning to expand its beer and wine selling store base from 26 stores to 40 stores within the next year.
According to USA Today, the super chain originally began with one store selling beer and wine in 2010, based out of Seattle. Over the last few years, the company built the boozy base up to 26 locations. They hope within the next few years to have thousands of beer and wine joints across the country.
Starbucks spokeswoman Lisa Passe says that the beer and wine addition is a natural evolution for the company. "The concept is a natural progression for Starbucks as we seek to create a new occasion for customers to gather, relax and connect with each other in the evenings."
This may be a wise move for the company, since alcoholic beverages like beer and wine are on the rise in popularity throughout the country, and may cause a spike in nighttime activity for the coffee giant, which sees decreases in sales as it gets dark out. In addition, beer or wine may increase the amount of money spent in a single trip to Starbucks, seeing as the average customer drops five dollars a visit.
The booze slinging coffee houses add a new aspect as well, which are food sales that compliment such alcoholic treats. Savory-styled appetizer plates, with artisan flatbreads, bacon wrapped dates, and truffle macaroni and cheese, are there to compliment the new beverage additions.
Starbucks representatives make note, however, that although booze will be on the menu, and new treats will be served for food, coffee will still be the company's main focus.
