For the first time in over a year, retail footfall has increased, marking a notable shift in consumer behavior driven by the back-to-school season and favorable weather conditions.
- The British Retail Consortium reports a 3.3% rise in visitor numbers, recovering from a previous decrease in August.
- Retail locations experienced the largest improvement, with a 7.3% increase in footfall, compared to a lower rise in the previous month.
- Shopping centers and high streets also saw gains, reflecting a broader trend of recovery across various shopping environments.
- Industry leaders highlight the combined effect of weather conditions and call for strategic fiscal policies to sustain this positive growth.
In September, retail footfall achieved a significant milestone by rising for the first time in over a year. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) outlined this upward trend, indicating a 3.3% increase in shopper visits compared to a dip of 0.4% in August. This recovery is a promising sign for the retail industry, spurred by the back-to-school period and moderated climate conditions.
Retail sectors led the charge with a prominent 7.3% surge in footfall, which is a substantial increase from the preceding month’s 2.6%. This substantial improvement highlights the favorable shopping conditions that September offered, in stark contrast to the previous year’s intense heatwave that discouraged consumer activity.
Furthermore, shopping centers witnessed a 2.3% uptick in visitors, a reversal from the 1.8% decline observed in August. High streets also contributed to this positive trajectory with a 0.9% increase in foot traffic, post a 0.3% fall in the previous month, showcasing a more uniform recovery across various retail environments.
Helen Dickinson, BRC’s chief executive, attributed this growth to the ‘sweet spot’ of weather conditions, unlike last year when extreme temperatures kept shoppers away. The current climate not only encouraged consumer activity but also provided an opportunity for retailers to attract additional visits and consequently boost sales.
While celebrating this rise in footfall, industry figures caution that ongoing fiscal measures are crucial to sustain this momentum. There is a call for adjustments in business rates to alleviate financial pressures on retailers. Helen Dickinson emphasized that a 20% correction in the retail business rates would significantly support high street growth and foster thriving retail communities.
The recent rise in retail footfall is a promising development, but sustained growth hinges on strategic economic adjustments.
