UK retail footfall experienced a significant drop this July, reflecting post-election uncertainty.
- The British Retail Consortium reported a 3.3% decrease in total UK footfall compared to last year, with high street, retail parks, and shopping centres all witnessing declines.
- England faced the steepest decline, with a 3.4% reduction in foot traffic, contributing to a nationwide downturn in consumer engagement.
- Many consumers opted to spend on holidays and leisure activities during the summer, reducing their retail spending.
- Retailers are hopeful for future improvements as election uncertainties subside and the school holidays progress.
UK retail footfall experienced a significant drop this July, reflecting post-election uncertainty. According to the latest BRC-Sensormatic IQ data, total UK footfall dropped by 3.3% year on year. This decline is a continuation from June, when footfall had already decreased by 2.3%.
The British Retail Consortium reported varied impacts across different shopping environments. High street footfall was down by 2.7% in July, an improvement from June’s 3.1% drop. Meanwhile, retail parks observed a 0.8% reduction, further decreasing from the 0.4% decline in the previous month. Shopping centres continued a concerning trend with a 3.9% decline, consistent since May.
Among the UK nations, England experienced the most significant decrease, with a 3.4% drop in foot traffic. Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales also saw declines, albeit less pronounced.
Commentators have noted that many consumers have shifted their spending to holidays and leisure activities over shopping as summer unfolds. Helen Dickinson of the British Retail Consortium remarked on the prolonged decline in footfall, noting, “Footfall declined for the twelfth consecutive month, failing to maintain the buoyancy seen in 2022/23.”
With the election now over, retailers are cautiously optimistic. Dickinson highlighted the opportunities in Labour’s promises to reform business rates and planning laws, which could invigorate local retail destinations. Meanwhile, Andy Sumpter from Sensormatic Solutions acknowledged the challenges of July’s lower footfall despite better weather conditions compared to June. He remains hopeful for improved store performance as the school holidays continue.
Despite the challenges and a slow July, retailers are optimistic about a possible upturn in the coming months as uncertainties ease.
