September saw a notable rise in UK footfall, marking the first increase in over a year.
- Data from the BRC-Sensormatic Footfall Monitor showed a 3.3% year-on-year growth.
- High street, retail parks, and shopping centres all experienced increased footfall.
- Favourable weather conditions played a key role in boosting shopper numbers.
- Retail parks emerged as the leading destinations for shoppers.
In a positive shift, UK footfall rose by 3.3% in September, reversing a year of declines. This growth is captured in the BRC-Sensormatic Footfall Monitor’s data, highlighting a significant improvement from the -0.4% observed in August. Such an increase indicates a crucial change in consumer behaviour, providing a welcomed relief to retailers that have been struggling with consistent low footfall.
The high street saw a modest rise of 0.9% in footfall compared to August’s -0.3%. Retail parks witnessed a remarkable 7.3% increase, while shopping centres saw a 2.3% uplift. Each category showed significant recovery, suggesting that the retail landscape is adapting to changing consumer preferences and external conditions.
Favourable meteorological conditions significantly influenced this upward trend. Mild temperatures created an ideal shopping environment, described as a ‘sweet spot’, driving more consumers out for shopping trips. This contrasts with the previous year’s intense heatwave, which deterred many shoppers and hindered retail activity.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, noted the boost in footfall as a positive outcome of the optimal weather, which has prevented extreme conditions from affecting consumer outings. Retail parks benefitted especially, as they combine convenience with the protection from inclement weather, becoming attractive shopping venues.
Retail consultant Andy Sumpter from Sensormatic added that the growth in September represents a pivotal change, building on last year’s lower footfall due to adverse weather. He highlighted retail parks’ appeal with strategic tenant mixes that cater to current consumer demands, thus drawing higher shopper traffic.
September’s promising footfall increase reflects the favourable weather conditions and strategic retail positioning, offering hope for future retail resilience.
