September saw a notable increase in retail footfall for the first time in over a year.
- Shopper visits rose by 3.3% in September, reversing the previous 0.4% decline in August.
- Retail areas experienced a significant rise in footfall at 7.3%, reflecting the highest gains.
- Shopping centres and high street locations also showed improvements in visitor numbers.
- Mild weather and strategic timing played crucial roles in this positive trend.
In a positive shift for the retail sector, September witnessed a 3.3% increase in shopper visits compared to the previous month, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC). This rise marks the first increase in retail footfall in over a year and contrasts sharply with the 0.4% decline observed in August. It highlights a growing trend as consumers return to physical shopping locations.
Retail areas showed the most notable improvement, with footfall climbing by 7.3% in September. This increase follows a 2.6% rise in the previous month, signifying a robust recovery within the sector. Similarly, shopping centres saw a 2.3% rise in visitor numbers, compared to a 1.8% dip in August, while high streets experienced a modest 0.9% increase, rebounding from a 0.3% decrease the month prior.
BRC’s chief executive, Helen Dickinson, attributed the growth to favourable weather conditions and a comparative weakness in footfall the previous year. She noted that the mild temperatures created an optimal environment for consumer activities, contrasting with the past year’s heatwave that kept shoppers at home, delaying purchases of seasonal products.
Despite the encouraging figures, concerns remain regarding the future of retail. Helen Dickinson called for strategic adjustments in business rates, suggesting a ‘Retail Business Rates Corrector’ to mitigate the disproportionate impact on the industry. This proposed 20% adjustment aims to boost investment and rejuvenate high streets by encouraging more footfall and fostering thriving communities.
Additionally, industry leaders like Sainsbury’s CEO Simon Roberts have warned of the risk posed to over 17,000 shops which could face closure in the next decade without substantial reforms to the business rates levy. The conversation around economic support for the retail sector continues to be pivotal as these developments unfold.
The rise in footfall provides a promising outlook for the retail sector, although strategic economic measures may be necessary to sustain this growth.
