There is “huge potential” for coffee shops serving alcoholic drinks, according to research from CGA Strategy. 

Almost a third (31%) of 1,800 consumers polled said they would choose cocktails as their alcoholic beverage in a coffee shop, which would potentially generate an extra £77m a year. Meanwhile, 26% said they would choose sparkling wine.

The research, which comes after major chains Starbucks and Pret A Manger introduced evening trials, found that the availability of alcohol would not necessarily alienate coffee shop goers. It revealed that those who visit coffee shops at least once a week are more likely to choose alcohol than others.

Some 17% of respondents who do not currently frequent coffee shops said they would be likely to visit if alcoholic drinks were on offer.

Dan McGlynn, CGA Strategy account director, said: “This research confirms there is a strong appetite for them among consumers and, if licensing restrictions allow, introducing them would give people more reasons to visit during the evening as well as the day.

“If branded coffee shops can get their offer right, there is huge potential for them to keep guests loyal and increase their sales.”

Pret A Manger extended its opening hours at a trial site in April, while Starbucks pioneered the move in February.

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