Shop vacancy rate remains at its lowest level since June 2010

Britain’s shop vacancy rate in June remained stable at its lowest level since June 2010, according to the latest figures.

Data compiled by the Local Data Company  found the vacancy rate stayed unmoved at 13.4% in June.

The picture remained stable across both retail and leisure uses which is reflected in the overall vacancy rate remaining at 11.9% in June.

All (Retail & Leisure) vacancy rate – 11.9% (*12.4%)
Shop (Retail) vacancy rate – 13.4% (*14.1%)
Leisure vacancy rate – 7.6% (*7.4%)
(*June 13 figure)

Matthew Hopkinson, director at The Local Data Company, said: “Increasing consumer and business optimism is having a positive impact on many retail and leisure locations up and down the country. A number of national and international retailers are starting to open more shops which is good news for many high streets but will not affect all.

“Detailed analysis of the LDC data shows that the good are getting better and the weak are getting weaker. In addition to this we are seeing the impact of the structural changes taking place to many established retailers as they fight to retain market share. The best example in this regard is the impact the discounters are having on the traditional supermarket businesses.

“Whilst the vacancy rate sits very favourably compared to 12 months ago it should be remembered that consumer confidence is still fragile and a change to the interest rate could have a profound impact on changes over the last few months.”

Fig 1. GB Shop vacancy rate 2008-2014