New data has revealed that footfall across UK retail destinations edged up 0.9% last week from the previous seven day period.
The figures from retail specialist Springboard show that high streets saw an uplift of 3.3% whereas retail parks and shopping centres experienced declines of 0.8% and 2.2% respectively.
Diane Wehrle, insights director at Springboard, said: “Last week footfall across UK retail destinations stagnated in overall terms, with very little uplift from the week before. Despite this, there was a glimmer of hope for the hospitality industry, as the most gains in footfall were made post 5pm as shoppers took the opportunity provided by hot weather to enjoy hospitality venues.”
Heavy rain on Monday and Tuesday led to footfall declining by an average of 2% across all destinations on the days. However, better weather later in the week led to an average increase of 4.3%.
Looking ahead to this week, Wehrle added: “Following ‘Freedom Day’, this week we are anticipating for footfall to rise by 19.7% across the UK, as Covid restrictions such as face coverings and social distancing, are no longer mandatory in England. With summer holiday commencing and many opting for a summer staycation in the UK, footfall will continue to rise throughout July and into August as many look to enjoy the good weather.”
