Retail footfall has increased in the run-up to Christmas as customers shop for festive food and last-minute gifts.
Footfall data from MRI Software shows that on Monday, December 22, there was a 38.6% week-on-week increase across all UK destinations.
Compared with the Monday before Christmas in 2024, UK destinations saw a 0.4% decline in visits, but high street footfall increased 3.2%.
MRI Software data analyst Jenni Matthews said: “Shoppers are definitely out in full force as we edge closer to Christmas Day, with week-on-week figures up significantly. High streets have benefited from both an annual lift and a week-on-week increase.”
Up until 1pm on Tuesday, December 23, the week-on-week change across all UK destinations was up 18.8%, but annual footfall saw a drop.
Across all UK destinations, the year-on-year decline was 7.9% with shopping centres seeing the worst drop at 12%.
In the final days leading up to Christmas, supermarket shopping is expected to rise as customers shop for last-minute festive food.
According to Park Christmas Savings, two-thirds of households said they are relying heavily on last-minute supermarket deals, loyalty discounts and early Boxing Day promotions to manage food bills.
To-the-wire buying is expected, with 58% of households shopping on Amazon for last-minute items; 77% will shop at high street names such as Argos, Primark and TK Maxx.
Westfield is also expecting good footfall in the period between Christmas and new year, which has become a key trading window in London, especially with new entrants to its two London sites.
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield managing director of customer and retail operations of Northern Europe Katie Wyle said: “Early engagement is already strong across Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City, driven by compelling retail offers and factors that encourage longer dwell time.
“Experiences such as Wicked: For Good – The Experience, family-focused activities and new openings like Activate at Westfield London are helping visitors make the most of the week.
“This reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour. Our research shows that nearly half of UK consumers prioritise immersive and entertainment-led experiences when choosing where to spend their time, even during peak retail periods.
“We are also seeing strong momentum in categories such as home, sport and beauty, supported by new openings including Alo, Tala and Aroma Zone.”
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