UK retailers witnessed a significant increase in footfall on December 23, marking the peak shopping day ahead of Christmas.
- Data indicates a 28.5% rise in footfall, driven predominantly by shopping centres which saw a remarkable 45.5% increase.
- Retail parks experienced a 31.1% surge in footfall, contributing to the overall uptick in consumer activity.
- Despite the overall increase, high street footfall was 5.3% lower than the previous year, highlighting ongoing consumer pressures.
- Retailers are advised to be cautious as a potential spending freeze looms in the new year due to cost-of-living concerns.
On December 23, traditionally the most bustling shopping day preceding Christmas, retailers throughout the United Kingdom experienced a noteworthy 28.5% uplift in footfall. This surge was most pronounced in shopping centres, where footfall climbed by an impressive 45.5%. Retail parks also contributed significantly, with a 31.1% increase, reflecting a robust consumer turnout as people made last-minute purchases for gifts and groceries.
However, while the data paints a generally positive picture, UK high streets saw footfall rise by only 18.8% compared to the previous week and remain 5.3% down compared to the same day last year. This decline suggests ongoing economic strain affecting consumer behaviour, as highlighted by Jenni Matthews, marketing and insights director at MRI, who noted that “the attraction of the vast leisure and retail options available to consumers” is drawing shoppers but at somewhat reduced levels compared to last year.
The economic context is further complicated by predictions of a looming spending hiatus in the upcoming year, attributed to persistent cost-of-living challenges. The observed retail activity on December 23, which prompted consumer spending of approximately £1.46 billion according to VoucherCodes.co.uk, might represent the last major economic activity for retailers before a financially restrained 2025.
Retail experts advise that this December shopping frenzy may not be sustainable, urging businesses to strategise for a potentially difficult beginning to the next year. Matthews cautioned retailers to observe these trends closely and adjust plans accordingly, aligning their commercial strategies with consumer realities.
December 23 proved prosperous for the UK retail sector despite underlying economic challenges that may impact future consumer spending.
