Footfall across the UK fell in August, according to the latest British Retail Consortium (BRC) figures, with the membership body once again calling for government action on business rates and energy costs.
Total UK footfall decreased by 1.7 per cent in August (YoY), but this was an increase from July’s 2.1 per cent drop.
High Street footfall decreased by 3.1 per cent in August (YoY), up from -3.8% in July. Shopping Centre footfall also decreased by 0.5% in August (YoY), up from -1.4% in July.
BRC described retail parks as “the standout performers” as footfall there increased by 1.0 per cent in August (YoY), down slightly from 1.2 per cent in July.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, said: “Footfall improved on the previous month, though still down on last year. The cooler temperatures played a key role, bringing shoppers back after a scorching July to stock up on essentials and back-to-school items.
“Retailers don’t need warm words, they need lower costs. With his first Budget weeks away, chancellor Healey has a chance to throw Britain’s high streets a lifeline. Retail faces cost pressures and households are watching every penny. Government action on business rates and energy costs would help keep prices down, support investment, and sustain the jobs and communities that retail underpins across the country.”
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Earlier this week, MRI Software data mirrored this footfall drop. It showed high street footfall dipped 1.2 per cent.
While shopping centres seeing a jump of 2.3 per cent, retail parks a small increase of 0.8 per cent, due to the fifth UK heatwave and back to school purchases.
Sensormatic also recognised the multiple heatwaves strain on the high street. “Above-average temperatures may have continued to influence behaviour, although conditions were less extreme than July’s record-breaking heat,” noted Andy Sumpter, head of consulting & analytics – EMEA for Sensormatic.
“Meanwhile, rising inflation, now at a two-year high, is likely placing renewed pressure on disposable incomes.
“With the industry’s most important trading period fast approaching, there are reasons for cautious encouragement, but not complacency. England continues to lag the other home nations, weighing on the overall UK result. The challenge for retailers remains unchanged: converting a modest improvement in footfall into meaningful spend as the industry’s most important trading season draws nearer.”
Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash
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