In May, total UK footfall decreased by 1.7% year-on-year, down from a significant increase of 7.2% in April. High Streets and Shopping Centres also experienced declines of 2.5% and 2.3%, respectively, while Retail Parks showed slight growth of 0.2%. The decrease spanned all nations, particularly affecting England, which saw a 2.0% decline. Helen Dickinson from the British Retail Consortium highlighted that despite good weather, consumer sentiment was low due to rising household bills. There is a call for government reforms in business rates to help revitalize high streets.
Despite favourable weather throughout May, footfall took a disappointing turn last month, following a more promising start to the year.
The Chancellor's 2024 Budget added £5 billion to the industry's costs, hampering their ability to deliver vibrant, engaging shopping experiences.
These reforms should support and incentivise, rather than penalise, the investment needed to revitalise our high streets and town centres.
Retail Parks performed the best of all locations, though only registering a slight uptick in shopper traffic.
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