UK retail footfall falls 2.9 percent in September ahead of Budget

UK retail footfall fell 2.9 percent year on year in September, down from a 1.7 percent decline in August, according to the latest BRC-Sensormatic data.

Shopping centre footfall fell 3.5 percent during the month, followed by high streets at 3.0 percent and retail parks at 1.7 percent.

Across the UK, footfall declined 3.4 percent in England, 3.0 percent in Wales and 0.7 percent in Scotland. Northern Ireland was the only region to record growth, with footfall increasing 2.1 percent year on year.

The figures cover the five weeks from August 30 to October 3 and come as retailers move into the Golden Quarter, with the sector facing continued pressure on consumer spending.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), said September had been “sluggish”, with high streets and shopping centres particularly affected.

“While some seasonal slowdown is expected, this September saw a sharp decline compared to last year,” she said, adding that retailers would be looking to attract shoppers with value and choice during the final quarter.

Dickinson also called on the government to address the cost of doing business ahead of the Autumn Budget, arguing that avoiding another increase in business rates could help retailers invest in stores, keep prices down and support employment.