All UK retail destinations recorded a steady rise in footfall last week, driven by a mix of warmer weather, seasonal demand and high-profile summer events.

High streets witnessed peak footfall levels on Thursday July 3, rising 5.1%, while retail parks and shopping centres footfall peaked on Wednesday 2 compared to the week before, rising 6.6% and 3.7% respectively, according to data from MRI Software.

Retail footfall was up 1.5% last week across all UK retail destinations from the week prior, largely driven by a 2.9% boost in retail park activity, followed by high streets (1.3%) and shopping centres (0.9%).

Despite a slight dip on two of the seven days — averaging -0.7% — footfall remained positive across the rest of the week as rising temperatures drew shoppers to both open-air and air-conditioned destinations.

MRI also noted a surge in Cardiff footfall as Oasis kicked off their reunion world tour in the city.

The capital of Wales saw a 25.1% increase in footfall year on year from 3 July to 6 July, as well as a 10.6% uplift compared to the previous week.

The firm added that cities set to host the tour this summer could see similar boosts to footfall and consumer spending.

In April, MRI reported that footfall remained largely flat in the lead-up to Easter, despite increased shopper activity ahead of the long weekend.

High streets experienced a modest drop in footfall, while retail parks and shopping centres saw a rise, likely reflecting shoppers gearing up for Easter.

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