TULSA, Okla. - QuikTrip is planning to open four more of its "Generation 3" concept stores in the Kansas City market by year??s end, reports bizjournals.com.

QuikTrip spokesperson Mike Thornbrugh told the news source that the new stores will open in July, September and October. Some of the retailer??s Missouri stores are a stone??s throw from Kansas.

"As long as they keep their adult beverage laws, we??ll just build in Missouri," Thornbrugh told the news source, adding that QuikTrip believes it is only a matter of time before Kansas changes its liquor laws.

The "Generation 3" are designed to give customers a "more upscale experience that can compete with coffee shops such as Starbucks," notes the news source. The stores are 5,700 square feet and offer hot and cold specialty drinks, smoothies and soft-serve ice cream.

"We??re really concentrating on the fresh-food business," Thornbrugh commented, adding, "As we continue to get better at that and grow at that, this new model is going to help us tremendously. It??s also designed to accommodate adult beverages." Each store will employ 15 to 17 associates.

Thornbrugh noted that the new store concept has been well received, which is why the chain is moving ahead with them. "They??re a substantial investment," he said, without divulging specific amounts.