Retail footfall in the UK has risen for the first time in over a year, signalling a positive shift in the retail sector.
- In September, total UK shopper visits increased by 3.3%, reversing a previous decline.
- Retail parks experienced the most significant growth in footfall, with a 7.3% rise.
- Shopping centres and high streets also saw increases, with 2.3% and 0.9% growth respectively.
- The growth is linked to favourable weather conditions and increased business confidence.
Retail footfall in the UK has risen for the first time in over a year, signalling a positive shift in the retail sector. According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), consumer visits to shops increased last month, primarily influenced by the back-to-school shopping rush.
In September, total UK shopper visits increased by 3.3%, a notable improvement from the 0.4% decline recorded in August. This rise was largely driven by consumer activity in various retail environments.
Retail parks experienced the most significant growth in footfall, with a 7.3% rise. This was an increase from the 2.6% rise observed in August, highlighting the appeal of retail parks as convenient shopping destinations with ample parking facilities.
Shopping centres and high streets also saw increases in visitor numbers. Shopping centres experienced a 2.3% growth in footfall, recovering from a 1.8% dip in August. Meanwhile, high streets saw a modest increase of 0.9% compared to a previous 0.3% decline.
Helen Dickinson, BRC chief executive, attributed the rise in footfall to mild weather conditions, which provided optimal conditions for shopping. “It was neither too hot nor too cold for customers, leaving retailers in the sweet spot for additional shopping trips,” she stated. This situational advantage contrasts with last year’s intense heatwave, which deterred consumers from shopping.
Additionally, the report notes an increased sense of business confidence as crucial for future retail growth. The BRC suggests that factors such as a proposed Retail Business Rates Corrector could further stimulate investment in the high street, fostering thriving retail communities across the UK.
The recent increase in retail footfall across the UK heralds a potentially positive trend for the retail industry moving forward.
