The latest BRC–Sensormatic IQ Footfall Monitor reveals that UK shopper numbers fell for the sixth consecutive month in October, underscoring continued pressure on the retail sector as households curb spending amid ongoing economic uncertainty.
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Total UK footfall declined by 0.7% year-on-year in October, though this marked an improvement on September's 1.8% fall. High Street locations offered a rare bright spot, recording a 0.6% uplift, while Retail Parks and Shopping Centres saw smaller decreases of 0.5% and 0.9% respectively. Regionally, Wales was the only nation to see growth, up 0.6%, while Scotland fell by 0.1%, Northern Ireland by 0.2%, and England by 0.9%.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:
"While overall footfall fell for the sixth consecutive month, there was some good news on High Streets, which saw positive shopper traffic after a disappointing September. With consumer confidence remaining weak ahead of the possibility of a tax-raising Budget, many households have stayed away from shopping centres and retail parks. However, a Friday Halloween brought some welcome relief, delivering a late-month boost for retailers."
Dickinson warned that persistent declines in store visits highlight the need for immediate Government action:
"Many retail locations have struggled to attract as many customers to their stores in recent years, buffeted by the high cost of living and poor consumer sentiment. It is vital the Chancellor uses the Budget to support shops, including large anchor stores, which help drive shopper traffic to high streets and surrounding businesses. Now is the moment for Government to deliver on their manifesto's business rates commitment, exclude retail from the new business rates surtax and ensure a meaningful rates reduction for the industry. This will help to boost investment in fresh and exciting shopping destinations, better in-store experiences and encourage shoppers to visit more often."
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic, added:
"Footfall across UK retail destinations fell -0.7% year-on-year in October, softening from September's -1.8% drop but still marking a decline on last October's -1.1%. Halloween gave retailers a brief treat, with footfall rising on the day, but overall figures suggest shoppers remain cautious. In response, some retailers have brought forward discounting to tempt early spend, hoping to capture demand ahead of Black Friday and the festive peak."
The BRC continues to call for measures to ease cost pressures and stimulate investment, helping to revitalise Britain's retail destinations and restore consumer confidence.
More information:
BRC
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www.brc.org.uk
