UK retail footfall takes ‘disappointing turn’ during the start of summer

Total UK footfall fell by 1.7% year on year in May, according to the latest data from the BRC-Sensormatic footfall monitor.

Footfall fell even more month on month, down from a 7.2% rise in April.

High street footfall declined 2.5% annually in May, also down from a 5.3% increase last month.

Retail park footfall increased 0.2% annually but fell from a 7.5% rise in April, while shopping centre footfall fell 2.3% annually and decreased from a 5.6% increase in April.

Across all four nations, footfall fell year on year. Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England saw a fall of 0.4%, 0.7%, 1.4% and 2% respectively.

BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “Despite favourable weather throughout May, footfall took a disappointing turn last month, following a more promising start to the year. While stock markets stabilised, higher household bills depressed consumer sentiment and the appetite to visit retail stores. 

“Retail parks performed the best of all locations, though only registering a slight uptick in shopper traffic. There was also positive news in the North West, as Manchester’s string of summer activities solidified its position as one of the top-performing English cities.

“Retailers work hard to deliver vibrant, engaging shopping experiences that attract customers and boost footfall across the UK. However, the chancellor’s 2024 Budget added £5bn to the industry’s costs, hampering their ability to do so. 

“The government must now ensure that upcoming reforms to business rates to be announced in the 2025 Budget leave no shop paying more. These reforms should support and incentivise rather than penalise the investment needed to revitalise our high streets and town centres.”