UK retail footfall remained flat in June but a summer of events, warm weather and sports could give a boost to July.
Footfall across all retail destinations saw a 0.5% dip month on month in June, but it surged during the final week as live events, weather and weekday activity drew more visitors, according to MRI Software.
High streets saw the only rise in footfall in June, at 0.3%, while retail parks declined 0.6% and shopping centre footfall fell 2.1%.
Annual footfall in June inched up slightly by 0.1% on 2024. Shopping centres and high streets saw small 0.5% and 0.1% declines respectively, while retail parks saw a 1.2% rise in footfall.
Weekday footfall across all UK destinations in June increased 0.4% year on year. MRI said this could be because shoppers are stocking up ahead of warm weekends, which are likely to continue throughout July and August.
Cardiff saw a massive boost in footfall thanks to the Oasis reunion tour. Over the weekend when the band played, footfall soared 25.1% year on year.
MRI said: “These city-level case studies highlight the growing influence of cultural and sporting events on retail vitality. The knock-on effects extended well beyond the stadium walls; hospitality, leisure and retail all benefited as towns and cities came alive. Packed pubs, busy restaurants, and bustling shopping streets painted a picture of post-pandemic vibrancy returning in full force.
“With the summer of sport and music well and truly underway and school holidays on the horizon, retail leaders across the country have reason to be optimistic. The challenge now is converting this short-term momentum into sustained engagement through tailored promotions, late-night trading, and city-centre experiences that encourage repeat visits.”
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