HARRISBURG, Pa. - Wegmans Food Markets will no longer participate in Pennsylvania€™s wine kiosk program, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. The state Liquor Control Board (LBC) had begun the program in an effort to better serve retailers and the public, but the program was roundly criticized by both parties.

"We had hoped that our customers would find the kiosks to be a valuable addition to their shopping experience, but that proved not to be the case. They want the convenience of purchasing wine in a supermarket, but found the choice of items too limited in the kiosk," Wegmans said in a statement. "Also, our customers rely upon the knowledgeable, personalized service our employees provide every day, but that is something that an automated kiosk just cannot provide. The kiosks just did not fit well with our store environment."

It€™s quite a blow to the fledging program, which had 10 of its 32 kiosks in Wegmans locations. The program debuted the summer of 2010 to much fanfare as a way to ease consumers€™ purchase of wine at the grocery store. However, a learning curve as shoppers deciphered how the kiosks worked and a shutdown over the Christmas holidays because of mechanical difficulties has not made the program popular.

"We were hopeful at the launch of the program that we were finding new and innovative ways to bring convenience and selection to our customers. Certainly, our focus is the customer every time. We want to make sure we are doing things that people will embrace," said Stacey Witalec, LCB spokeswoman.

No word yet on whether the 10 Wegmans kiosks will find new homes at other retailers. Earlier this year Sheetz decided the kiosks were not a good fit for their stores.