UK retail footfall eases in May
By Abigail Townsend
Date: Friday 31 May 2024
(Sharecast News) - UK retail footfall eased in May, industry research showed on Friday, despite the bank holiday weekends and improving weather.
According to the latest BRC-Sensormatic IQ footfall monitor, total footfall slipped 3.6% in May, although that was an improvement on April's 7.2% slump.
All types of shopping destinations saw fewer visitors during the month. Footfall decreased by 2.7% on high streets, by 2.3% in retail parks and by 4.5% in shopping centres.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: "Bank holidays and improving weather failed to entice customers to make in person trips to shopping destinations.
"Retailers will be hopeful that a warm summer, coupled with events such as European Championships and Olympics, will boost footfall.
"Political parties have a role to play too, by having policies that mean retailers can invest in rejuvenating shopping destinations. A broken business rates system and outdate planning laws are holding back the industry."
Andy Sumpter, EMEA retail consultant for Sensormatic Solutions, said: "Retailers were dealt some good news, as footfall recovered against the month before. While no one's denying this improvement is starting from a low base, many will be hoping this represents a turning point.
"With inflationary pressures easing and household budgets starting to feel a little less squeezed, along with the general optimism that may come with the general election, many may be hoping the mood music has shifted into something more positive."
Email this article to a friend
or share it with one of these popular networks:
You are here: news
10 Lower Thames St,
London EC3R 6EN