BRC calls on government to support retail destination as footfall drops

Footfall declined for the twelfth consecutive month, failing to maintain the buoyancy seen in 2022-23, shows the data released by leading retailers’ body as it calls the Labour government to reform both business rates and planning laws.

According to BRC-Sensormatic IQ data, total UK footfall decreased by 3.3 per cent in July (YoY), down from -2.3 per cent in June. High Street footfall increased by 2.7 per cent in July (YoY), up from -3.1 per cent in June while retail Park footfall decreased by 0.8 per cent in July (YoY). Shopping Centre footfall decreased by 3.9 per cent in July (YoY).

All UK nations saw a fall in footfall year on year, states the report. Scotland decreased by 2.3 per cent YoY while Northern Ireland decreased by 2.2 per cent YoY. England decreased by 3.4 per cent, witnessing the largest fall in footfall, while Wales saw a dip of 3.2 per cent.

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said, “Footfall declined for the twelfth consecutive month, failing to maintain the buoyancy seen in 2022/23. As summer got into full swing, many people have chosen to increase their spending on holidays and leisure activities rather than shopping. Election week also saw particularly weak footfall, as political electioneering peaked, creating uncertainty for many consumers.

“With the election now over, many retailers will be making decisions about how and where to invest in the coming years. Retailers welcomed Labour’s promises to reform both business rates and planning laws – two major factors that often hold back much needed local investment. If Labour can address these effectively, they could help breathe new life into retail destinations.”

Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions, commented, “Despite a warmer and drier month compared to the wash-out that was June, July’s footfall faltered with shopper traffic falling back to the same levels we saw in May. 

“As we approach a full year of seeing footfall yo-yo in its ongoing recovery, it’s clear the longtail of the cost-of-living crisis is continuing to rattle consumer confidence and is likely to prompt spending caution for some time to come, making each in-store conversion all the harder won.  With election fever now over and the school holidays now in full swing, retailers will be hoping that spells a positive outlook for store performance in the months to come.”