Slowing decline in footfall hints at green shoots for retail

In the four weeks to January 31, 2026, total UK footfall decreased by 0.6% up from a 2.9% decline in December, according to the latest BRC-Sensormatic data.

High street footfall decreased by 1.9% year over year, compared to a 0.9% slump in December. Shopping centre footfall dipped 0.8% in the period, up from -5.1% the previous month.

Retail park footfall increased 1.1%, up from a 2.5% decrease in footfall in the run up to Christmas.

Scotland recorded the strongest year-on-year footfall growth, up 5.1% for the period. Northern Ireland also reported strong growth of 3.8%. In contrast, footfall fell across the rest of the UK – down 1.4% in England and 2.8% in Wales.

BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “Although footfall edged down in January compared to a year earlier, it was much better than the disappointing Christmas period. The best performing cities were in the north, where shopper traffic was hit badly by severe storms last year. Retail parks also recorded positive growth, as customers made the most of free parking to shop in person during the January sales.

“An uptick in consumer confidence and possible signs of a footfall recovery offer some cautious optimism for some spring like green shoots. The government can enable retailers to build on this momentum by incentivising, rather than inhibiting, investment in stores and colleagues across the country. Upcoming legislation, including the Employment Rights Act, must support the long-term growth agenda, helping create the virtuous circle of jobs, investment in local communities, and footfall growth.”

Sensormatic retail consultant EMEA Andy Sumpter said: “January offered a welcome reset for UK retail, with footfall recording its best performance in five months. Shopper traffic remained in negative territory, but the dial moved in the right direction, marking a clear improvement on December and the wider golden quarter. Some of this uplift will have been driven by savvier spending behaviours, as consumers took advantage of new year promotions and sought out value after a stretched festive period.

“Storm Goretti, however, put a dampener on activity in parts of the month, disrupting travel and suppressing visits – a reminder that weather can play an outsized role in shaping shopper behaviour.

“Still, January shows that momentum is possible. As retailers look to build on a steadier start to the year, those who can deliver value, experience and convenience will be best placed to turn tentative steps into returning footfall. After a long nine months of negative footfall, and a near flat January, some retailers will be brave enough.”