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'We don't need a Gail's' - the coffee shop boom dividing locals

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Summary
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There are now 11,450 branded chain outlets across the UK , up from 9,800 five years ago .

Coffee shops are weathering the tough economic climate better than most businesses.

Gail 's, a brand that started in London more than 20 years ago , is controversial.

It draws crowds and inspires social media memes, but attracts fierce criticism too.

Some loyal customers are adamantly opposed to the arrival of Gail 's in Macclesfield .

Flour , Water , Salt is a direct rival to the bakery selling sourdough bread, bagels, coffee-iced buns and sausage rolls.

Independents may not be as under threat as people fear, says retail consultant Graham Soult .