Saw Kork's sign went up just south of WilsonArt on I35-S on the way to work today.

looked like it was pretty close to opening. Seems like a crappy location, but better than going to CC's or Twin liquor.

I heard not only will there be a Spec's, but Twin will be in Temple as well. Good times for all the Central Texas booze hounds!

Spec's = booze heaven.

and another Texas city emerges from the prohibition era

Is Specs open? And if so, where is it located?

They haven't begun construction yet.

I'm told they start on June 1. Apparently they had to finish the store in Corpus Christi, first.

It will be next to PetSmart in the Target/BJ's center.

actually they have started construction inside. Last week, they posted a building permit on the front glass. I noticed early today, looks like they are building what could be the cold box area.

I finally went to the new store that is open. People were really nice, but I was disappointed in their selections of the wierd things I like. Only had my flavored rums in the bigger bottles I don't have room for in my pantry.

Thanks for the update, petey.

I honestly don't claim to be an expert. I hear things via a contact at BJ's.

hi Jana, believe me, I'm no expert

hope I didn't come off as one

you are a cool lady

so for another update, I was at PetSmart this afternoon so I looked in on the new neighbor. What I said could be a cold box area, appears to be a framed in office or stock room. The front entrance glass doors were open to let a breeze in for the workers.

there were guys out back pushing electrical through conduit to power up the inside.

it's in the works folks

Flavored rum? Are you serious? Do you expect a small liquor store to have your proper sizes of FLAVORED RUM?

I would expect the ONLY liquor store in a town the size of Temple to not be a tiny one. I don't see the purpose to open one so small.

People will still drive to Killeen or the store at Morgan's Point that has a good selection of stuff.

Be nice Matsui! Crap, son!

As for that new liquor store in Temple off I-35, in the spirit of legendary Aggie Coach Dennis Franchione, get your licks in while you can!

Same goes for Morgans Point. The WalMart of booze is comin' to town.

Kind of what I thought, Pablo.

I kind of feel sorry for Korks.

With Twin Liquors going in on the south side of town and Specs coming in for the West/North side, Korks doesn't stand a chance.

quote:

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I kind of feel sorry for Korks.

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Eh, to some extent, I guess. I've been there once, and I thought their prices were high. They are going to have to adjust. All the bells, whistles, big screen TVs, "virtual bartenders" and whatnot are not going draw the masses away from the discount bonanzas like Specs and Twin. Besides, those biggies have bells and whistles too - samples, gourmet food for low prices, mixers, knowledgeable and attentive staff - they know what they're doing.

I did read that the Morgans Point guy is going to try to take them on by opening a coupe of stores in Temple - one at the old Albertsons and one out on Airport Road. If he can keep his prices comparable, his locations might keep him competitive.

[This message has been edited by Captain Pablo (edited 5/16/2010 9:19a).]

You're right; competition is GOOD.

I didn't notice that their prices (Korks) were that much higher, but I'm not always observant in that manner, so my observation might not have relevance.

Good for the Morgan's Point guy. At least he realizes that with all of that competition, NO one will want to drive out to the boondocks for alcohol...especially for a small, cigarette-filled store.

Just signed up to post on this thread. My wife is an Aggie and posts on here some, so I check this place out sometimes.

I will be one of the Floor Sales associates at the new Specs in Temple. We are starting orientations this week for all the new employees. I am really excited about working for them and being with the best specialty liquor store in the Centex area.

The store will be around 15,000 sq ft, not as large as some of the other stores they run, but will be much better than anything else in town. If any of you have shopped at Specs before, you know they are truly unique. This location will not have a full service deli like others, but will have a substantial specialty foods section. Of course they will have all the hard to find beers and exotic liquors as all the other stores.

Also, the prices on their merchandise will blow everyone else away. I drink Evan Williams whiskey, and at C.C's a half gallon costs almost $20 plus tax. At Specs, if you pay cash or use debit to get a 5% discount, it is only $13.28 plus tax. Thats not a little cheaper, but much much lower.

We are shooting for an early June opening, but I haven't heard the official date yet. When it does open you centex Ags need to come see me. I will be the big guy with a red goatee in beer and liquor. Looking forward to helping y'all out.

This thread is greatness. Bring on the the boozin!

It's hard to believe, but with no Specs conveniently located, I've not even been in one. Looking forward to checking it out for myself.

Can't wait... I love Specs! I just like going to browse every time I am around one.

Our orientations are going well this week. I've been in one of the Austin Stores learning about all that is Specs. I will be the Liquor Consultant, and in the beer department some as well. The official opening date has not been set, but we are shooting for June 21, or 22. We really want to be open before the Forth of July. I will update everyone when it gets closer to opening time.

Any updates cblaze? When is the estimated opening date?

June 21

banner out front - June 21

This is good news.