August showed resilience in UK shopper numbers despite early month disruptions.
- BRC/Sensormatic data indicates a slight overall decline in footfall by 0.4% compared to last year.
- Retail parks outperformed other retail destinations, with a 2.6% increase in footfall.
- Analysts remain cautiously optimistic about future retail growth.
- Government support seen as crucial for high street recovery and investment.
August presented a mixed yet resilient picture for UK shopper numbers. Data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Sensormatic indicates that despite riots in early August, overall footfall only declined by 0.4% compared to the previous year.
While Northern Ireland and Scotland experienced modest year-on-year increases in footfall of 1.4% and 0.7% respectively, retail parks across the UK performed particularly well, registering a 2.6% rise in visitor numbers. This contrasted with high streets and shopping centres, which saw reductions of 0.3% and 1.8% respectively. These numbers received a cautiously optimistic reception from industry analysts.
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions, noted the robust footfall performance in the latter half of August. He attributed this to a combination of easing price inflation, favourable weather, and increased activity due to school and bank holidays. According to Sumpter, the resilience demonstrated by retail parks, which likely benefited from the disruption in town centres, is a positive indicator for potential long-term growth.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, emphasised the necessity for government intervention to aid high street recovery. She pointed out that despite improvements over July’s figures, overall footfall still languishes in negative territory. Dickinson highlighted the upcoming budget as a pivotal opportunity to address the high street’s challenges, specifically the business rates system, which is seen as a significant barrier to retail investment.
Government action is pivotal for reversing high street decline despite steady shopper numbers in August.
