Grocery Stores Across The US Are Starting To Serve Beer And Wine

Imagine shopping for your weekly pantry necessities: milk; bread; eggs; organic, gluten-free kale chips, while enjoying a glass of wine at the same time. It sounds a little far-fetched, but the newest trend in grocery shopping could be getting tipsy while you pick up essentials.

Busch's Fresh Food Market, a small grocery store chain based in Michigan, is seeking a liquor license for a store opening soon just west of Detroit. The chain plans on operating a bistro in the middle of the store with beer and wine available for thirsty shoppers to purchase.

"Michigan is a very, very saturated grocery market," John Hunter, director of marketing for Busch's told Michigan Live. "It's important to stay competitive and one step ahead of competitors."

Busch's isn't the only one. Whole Foods has operated wine bars in 70 locations since 2013. Target has also added beer and wine by the glass in certain local markets in the Chicago area, and Kroger has even added growler stations inside its stores which allows for easy refills. Grocery stores may say they're looking to improve customer experience, but they're probably also aware of the fact that a slightly inebriated shopper will purchase more.