Starbucks to Sell Alcohol

It’s one of those open secrets of addiction treatment: Recovery and Starbucks go hand in hand. That’s not to say that 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.

As those battling addiction come out of residential treatment and transition back into “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 for them – until now, anyway.

In an attempt to increase traffic later in the day, the Seattle-based java giant has made the decision to start selling alcohol on a trial basis in 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 that 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.

Alcohol Addiction Help at The Canyon

If you or someone you love needs alcohol rehab, call The Canyon at the toll-free number on our homepage. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.