Total UK footfall decreased by -1.9% year-on-year in June, but rose from -2.8% in May, new data reveals.
BRC-Sensormatic IQ data shows high street footfall increased by 0.6% year-on-year in June, up from -0.5% in May.
In addition, shopping centre footfall decreased by -4.2% year-on-year in June, up from -4.8% in May.
Of the UK nations, Scotland saw the least year-on-year decrease in footfall with a decline of -0.9%, followed by Wales with -1.0%, England with -1.9% and Northern Ireland -3.7%.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Footfall was down on June last year as the hot weather meant that people opted to enjoy the outdoors. Shopping patterns are still finding a new balance, as the high cost of living is affecting people’s habits and choices.
“We saw fewer visits to shopping centres and retail parks than last year, but high street locations were busier and footfall in major cities also improved, thanks to an increase in international tourism.”
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions, added: “While UK shopper traffic made a marginal gain in June compared to May, which will be some positive news for retailers, the ongoing cost-of-living pressure is set to continue to impact shopper behaviour and undermine consumer confidence.
“However, with the tide of food price inflation looking like it is finally – and albeit slowly – starting to recede, retailers will be looking ahead to July, and hoping to benefit from ambient footfall from the school holiday period.”
