UK retailers experienced a challenging November, with footfall declining for a second consecutive month.
- Delayed Black Friday discounts contributed to the drop in consumer numbers across high streets, retail parks, and shopping centres.
- Storm Bert caused significant travel disruptions, further reducing shopper turnout in some regions.
- Overall confidence among consumers remains low, impacting retail performance across the nation.
- Retailers now look to Black Friday and Christmas sales to boost figures in the crucial holiday quarter.
In November, UK retailers faced difficulties as footfall declined for a second month. Data from the British Retail Consortium revealed a 3.7% decrease in high street visits, with similar drops in retail parks and shopping centres. The delay of Black Friday sales and weak consumer confidence were key factors in this trend.
The impact was felt nationwide, with particular declines noted in Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales. Bristol saw the largest drop in consumer numbers at 7.7%, closely followed by London at 2.5%. The period covered did not include Black Friday, which is seen as a potential turning point for the retail sector.
Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, highlighted that the later-than-usual Black Friday and economic uncertainty deterred customers. She noted that regional issues, such as travel disruptions from Storm Bert, exacerbated the situation. “Some northern cities also suffered particularly badly due to Storm Bert,” she said, which affected transport and shopping activity.
Andy Sumpter, a retail consultant, remarked on the disappointing numbers, stressing the importance of the upcoming festive sales. The figures suggest retailers missed early Christmas trading opportunities, but Sumpter remains optimistic about a rebound if stores can attract shoppers in December.
As the ‘golden quarter’ approaches—spanning the lead-up to Christmas—retailers aim to enhance the in-store experience to entice consumers. Innovative merchandising and robust stock levels are seen as pivotal to driving up footfall and sales during this critical period.
Retailers remain hopeful that strategic efforts will revitalise customer engagement and improve sales figures during the festive season.