Starbucks Tests Out Beer & Wine

Some worry that the menu change will provide temptation for those in drug or alcohol recovery who love the coffeehouse’s safe environment.

For years now recovery and Starbucks have gone hand in hand, but that may be coming to an end now that the java giant has decided to try out serving alcohol. Of course, not everyone who goes through drug or alcohol treatment develops a new dependence on nonfat lattes or mocha frappuccinos, but those who don’t are in the minority. And as those battling addiction come out of residential treatment and transition back to “regular life,” their recovery plan often includes multiple daily stops at the local Starbucks. It may be the caffeine or the routine, but whatever the reason, those in recovery know that a coffeehouse is a safe environment – or it used to be.

Up to 70 percent of Starbucks’ sales happen before 2 pm each day, so in an attempt to increase traffic later in the day, the Seattle-based coffee retailer has made the decision to start selling alcohol on a trial basis at some of its stores. The adult beverages are part of a program dubbed “Starbucks Evenings” and will be served after 4 pm daily.

While some may applaud being able to get a glass of wine or a frosty bottle of beer at Starbucks – and its certainly within the retailer’s rights to offer those options – others question whether it will put those in recovery at risk.

As anyone who has gone through treatment knows, the recovery process is a lifelong one, and temptations can’t be completely avoided. Restaurants, sporting events and many other locations offer alcohol, and individuals in recovery need to learn what they can and cannot handle and plan accordingly, seeking out accountability as needed. Still, many will no doubt be mourning the loss of a safe place to grab a cup of coffee anytime of the day.

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