Starbucks is usually a hot spot for the morning rush, but as things start to quiet down, so do the stores. There has been an ever increasing demand for products that can be sold during the afternoon and evening shift.

The Seattle-based coffee giant announced the plan the week of December 6^th, 2011 to have beer and wine for sale by the end of 2012. The Seattle Times reported that there would be an offering of small plates like almonds and bread with olive oil dip that will be served as well.

This model has been tested in a handful of shops in the Pacific Northwest and five to seven shops will be participating as “concept stores.” These stores will start selling wine and beer after 2pm and it’s increased evening and night sales where it has been tried prior to full implementation.

The customer base that usually attends Starbucks wants to sit and relax and Starbucks wants to keep the social atmosphere while inviting those in who might normally want to go to a bar. This variety of choice can accommodate a whole slew of individuals and works great for groups where one might want a beer, one might want a glass of wine, and the other might want a coffee.

So far, customers have been responding really well to the new offerings. This also allows a variety of ages into the store, since you don’t have to be 21 to enter and there are non-alcoholic beverages available, as they always have been.

Some of these new concept stores will be built in new locations, while others will be remodels of existing shops, according to the Chicago Tribune. The new shops are also expected to feature some type of live entertainment, ranging from music, theater or poetry readings.