Retail footfall down despite return of shoppers after heatwave

UK retail footfall fell 1.7% year-on-year in August, despite cooler temperatures bringing shoppers back after July’s heatwave, according to the latest BRC-Sensormatic Footfall Monitor.

Total UK footfall decreased 1.7% in August, an improvement on the 2.1% decline recorded in July and the 3.4% fall recorded in June, when record temperatures kept many shoppers indoors. The latest figures cover the four weeks from 2 to 29 August.

The improvement came as cooler temperatures encouraged shoppers to return to stores, with the BRC highlighting increased visits for essentials and back-to-school items. However, footfall remained below last year’s levels, with high streets continuing to face the greatest pressure.

High street footfall fell 3.1% year-on-year, improving from a 3.8% decline in July and a 6.2% fall in June. Shopping centre footfall was down 0.5%, while retail parks were the only destination to record growth, increasing 1%.

By nation, footfall fell 2.1% in England, 1.3% in Wales and 0.1% in Scotland. Northern Ireland was the only nation to record growth, with footfall up 2.8%.

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, 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. Retail parks were the standout performers but the overall picture shows high streets face an uphill battle.”

She added that retailers were facing continued cost pressures while households remained cautious with spending, calling on the Government to take action on business rates and energy costs in the upcoming Budget.

Andy Sumpter, Head of Consulting & Analytics EMEA at Sensormatic, said: “August delivered a modest improvement for UK retail footfall, with total visits down 1.7% year-on-year. While still firmly in negative territory, this marks a welcome improvement on both July and June, suggesting the pace of decline may be beginning to ease.”

However, Sumpter warned that the figures remained negative against last year’s already modest performance, with retailers facing continued pressure as the key autumn and Christmas trading period approaches.

“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,” he said.