DEERFIELD, Ill. -- Walgreens Co. has entered the beer and wine business from both ends?"selling it and making it, the Chicago Tribune reports. The drug-store chain launched its private-label beer called Big Flats 1901 starting last month.

The beer is stocked at more than 4,600 out of 7,655 U.S. units, and will eventually be available in every market where private-label liquor is legal. Big Flats 1901 sells for around 50 cents per can.

"In this tough economy, consumers are looking for value and ways to make their money go (further)," said a Walgreens spokesman. "Big Flats 1901 offers our customers a premium lager at a great price."

Winery Exchange makes the private-label beer for Walgreens. Big Flats sales have "really taken off," said Kathleen Burns, senior marketing manager for the Winery Exchange.

In February, Walgreens will debut Colby Red, a red wine, which will join the chain??s Southern Point and David Stone wines. The wine and beer launches are part of Walgreens?? agenda to increase its alcohol offerings and sales. In the 1990s, the drug store halted its alcohol sales, but has started to sell it again.