US coffee franchise Starbucks has opened a store in Wanstead High Street.

Since starting out in 1971 with just a single store in Seattle, Starbucks has experienced massive growth and now has over 6000 stores worldwide. Recently though, that rapid expansion has been partly blamed for a downturn in the company’s fortunes - they are no longer seen as “exclusive” (despite the high prices) as it seems like many US cities have a Starbucks on virtually every corner.

Opinion seems to be divided on whether this move will be a “good thing” for Wanstead. Some welcome the fact that we now have a brand-name coffee outlet gracing the High Street, while others are concerned about the effect on existing independent coffee shops and delis. One of the great things about Wanstead High Street is the quality and diversity of its local shops which have managed to survive when, thanks to big supermarkets and retail parks, shops in many town centres have been dying a slow death (Leytonstone High Road anyone?).

Hopefully, the local shops will be able to live in harmony alongside their new neighbour – E11 certainly lacks major brand names at the moment compared with many other areas in London. The question is, now Starbucks have staked a claim in Wanstead, will others follow?