Retail footfall in the UK has risen for the first time in over a year, signaling a potential recovery for the sector.
- In September, overall shopper visits increased by 3.3%, a notable recovery from a 0.4% decline in August.
- Retail parks experienced the most significant growth, with footfall rising by 7.3% from the previous month.
- All four UK nations reported year-on-year footfall increases, with Wales leading at 5.4% growth.
- A combination of mild weather and strategic shopping trends has contributed to this uplift in retail activity.
Retail footfall in the United Kingdom experienced a long-awaited uptick in September, marking the first increase in over a year. Overall shopper visits grew by 3.3%, a stark contrast to the 0.4% decline observed in August, as reported by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). This resurgence reflects increased consumer activity as the back-to-school season prompted more visits to retail outlets.
Retail parks emerged as the standout performer, recording a significant 7.3% increase in footfall. This improvement builds on a 2.6% rise recorded in the previous month. The allure of accessible parking amid increased rainfall appears to have driven consumers to these locations more frequently.
Shopping centers also benefited during this period, observing a 2.3% boost in visitor numbers, a recovery from the 1.8% drop noted in August. The high street experienced a modest rise in footfall by 0.9%, providing a positive shift from the prior 0.3% dip.
All four nations within the UK enjoyed a rise in footfall year-on-year. Wales led this growth with a substantial 5.4% increase, followed by England at 3.6%. Such widespread growth suggests nationwide trends of improving consumer confidence and retail health.
Helen Dickinson, BRC’s chief executive, highlighted the impact of September’s mild weather compared to last year’s extreme heatwave, which hindered shopping activity. “It was neither too hot nor too cold for customers, leaving retailers in the sweet spot for additional shopping trips,” she noted. This variation in weather conditions has clearly played a pivotal role in the observed retail resurgence.
However, Dickinson emphasized the critical nature of the approaching months. She noted that the period leading up to Christmas remains crucial for the sector. The suggestion of a ‘Retail Business Rates Corrector’ to adjust bills could further energize this momentum by alleviating financial pressures on retail businesses, ultimately enhancing footfall and revitalizing high street communities.
The recent increase in retail footfall indicates a positive shift, but forthcoming months will be pivotal for sustained growth.
