UK retailers suffered a tough end to the summer, as footfall continued its “downward trajectory” with little sign of the trend reversing soon.
The latest BRC-Springboard Footfall and Vacancies Monitor showed footfall declined by 1.3% in August compared to the same point last year, when it was down 1.6%.
Both the high street and shopping centres were affected, with footfall declining 2.1% and 2.2% year on year respectively. However, retail park footfall had a 1% increase, following on from a 0.3% increase the previous year.
On a rolling three-month basis, footfall fell by 2.1%. The six-month average decline was 1.4%, while the 12-month average was a 1.7% decline.
BRC boss Helen Dickinson said the pressures on the retail sector showed little sign of easing.
“Retail footfall continues its downwards trajectory this month, with high streets and shopping centres most affected. The long-term trend, which has seen footfall decline by an average of 1.7% over the last 12 months, reflects the fact that increasingly cautious consumers are holding back on discretionary spending and not heading out to the shops.
“Only retail parks, with their combination of activities and shopping, were able to buck the trend.
“There is little sign that the stresses on retail will abate any time soon. Stuck between weak demand thanks to Brexit uncertainty, and rising costs resulting from business rates and other public policy costs, many retailers are clearly struggling.
“The Government should take the opportunity to reduce the heavy cost burden holding back retail investment.”
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