Robinson, S. Strabane Giant Eagle Stores Set To Sell Beer

Two Giant Eagle stores will be the first supermarkets in the Pittsburgh area allowed to sell beer.

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board unanimously approved liquor licenses for a store in South Strabane, Washington County, and a store opening Nov. 5 in Robinson Township, Allegheny County.

Before the Giant Eagle licenses were approved Wednesday, 20 supermarkets were allowed to sell beer in Pennsylvania.

The beer will be sold out of cafe areas in each store. Customers can buy the equivalent of two six-packs at the supermarkets. Beer distributors, who have fought supermarket efforts to sell beer, must sell beer by the case.

The announcement excited some shoppers in the area looking for more convenience when shopping.

“That’s exciting. It’ll save a trip to the store,” said Terri Fleet, who doesn’t even drink beer.

But some shoppers realize in-store beer brings a few unique issues.

“It would be a convenience for older people that don’t want to make a lot of stops,” said Yolanda Davis. “I’m leery of young people getting a hold of it.”

Giant Eagle wants to sell beer in 11 other western Pennsylvania stores.