Late Easter hits UK footfall

Total UK footfall decreased by 5.4% year-on-year in March, down from 0.2% in February, impacted by Easter falling later this year – in April as opposed to March as per 2024.

That’s according to the latest data from BRC-Sensormatic, covering the five weeks from 2 March - 5 April, which recorded a footfall decrease in UK high streets of 4% year-on-year, down from 0.1% in February.

Shopping centres also saw a footfall decline of 5.8% year-on-year in March, down from 0.1% in February, while footfall in retail parks fell to a far less extent at 1.2% in March - down from 2% in February.

Footfall decreased year-on-year across all nations, dropping 4.9% in England, 6.6% in Scotland, 8.3% in Wales, while the largest decrease was 9% in Northern Ireland.

Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, said: "With Easter falling in April this year, footfall in March could not compare to last year when families were already enjoying their Easter holidays.

"Despite this, footfall in retail parks held up better than other locations as the expanding offer of hospitality and leisure outlets alongside retail, together with free parking, attracted more shoppers. Similarly, London saw only a minor dip in footfall compared to other parts of the country.

"Global uncertainties resulting from tariffs and a potential economic slowdown could reduce the appetite for shopping trips in the coming months. The Government must find ways to boost consumer confidence and ensure retailers can invest in jobs and stores.

"The upcoming business rates reform, aimed at supporting high streets, could make the situation worse for thousands of retail stores caught by the proposed new, higher threshold. This is why it is vital that no store pays more as a result of these reforms."

Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic, added: "After a bumpy few months, March made for disappointing footfall as shopper and business confidence remains subdued, not helped by ongoing economic uncertainty and pre-Spring Statement jitters.

"With Easter this year landing in April, some of the downturn in store visits in March could have been from consumers withholding Easter spend. Retailers will now be hoping that strong Easter trading can help balance out a slow start to Spring.

"It’s worth noting, however, that there were some brighter moments for shopper counts in March – although, sadly, not enough of them to have had a material impact on the overall figures.  Mother’s Day in particular delivered a standout performance, driving a 13.4% uplift in high street footfall compared to last year."