Retail footfall shows resilience despite riots

Footfall in the UK rose marginally by 0.9% from July to August in all UK retail destinations according to data from MRI.

The performance was led by a 2.1% rise in shopping centre footfall followed by 2% increase at retail parks.

Despite this, activity in high streets declined by 0.1%, likely boosted by a rebound in activity during the third week following the ongoing disorder which occurred in many parts of the UK.

The month started on a weak note with the first two weeks averaging a decline of 2.2% week on week.

This was likely influenced by the school summer holidays and many people choosing to travel abroad, combined with protests and riots impacting much of the UK.

The latter part of the month witnessed an uplift in activity as a result of warmer weather and music events in certain parts of the UK, including the final leg of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.

This was particularly noticeable in London locations where footfall spiked by 8% year on year in the final week of the month.

MRI stated that the back-to-school rush will also be prominent in the coming days.

However the greatest impact for retail destinations in September could be the mandated return to office which is due to be enforced by many businesses nationwide.

This shift may lead to an uplift in weekday footfall as more people return to offices on a regular basis.