Who Says the UK High Street Is in Decline?
Picture this: you’re strolling down a bustling town square, a dome of hot cider in one hand, a curiosity‑laden grin on the other. If you’ve heard the phrase “the UK high street is dying”, think again. A fresh study from SumUp shows these streets are not only alive, they’re on the up.
Back‑to‑Basics: The Numbers That Matter
- Nearly 7,000 high streets across Great Britain.
- Over 320,000 retail businesses calling those streets home (2024 stats).
- And the biggest surge in new businesses? Aberdeen, with a whopping 82% jump.
Aberdeen Road‑Runner Stats
Aberdeen’s high street has turned into a towering growth spot. The city’s boom isn’t just boutique‑ish—it’s all‑encompassing, from tech gear to toys, and even vinyl record shops. Below are the hot categories:
- Telecom equipment stores – up 77.8%
- Games and toy shops – up 60%
- Music & video outlets – up 50%
Why Aberdeen is Winning
City councillors are buzzing over the dual forces of community love and strategic investment. According to Councillor Alex McLellan:
I’m thrilled to see Aberdeen leading the pack in retail growth. Our renewal plans for the city centre—multimillion‑dollar upgrades, a new market building, fresh streetscape—are driving the change. We’re also handing out grants for empty shops and making the neighbourhood a magnet for shoppers, locals, and tourists alike.
Barking & Dagenham: The Runner‑Up
Just a step behind Aberdeen, 45.1% growth lands Barking and Dagenham in second place. 2024 numbers show 820 retail operations within the bustling crossroads of the town centre. Parked under the town’s name? Oh, it’s more than just a postcode. It’s a thriving beacon for services, gadgets, and treats—right at the residents’ doorstep.
- The secret sauce? A flurry of capital spending on storefronts, street furniture, and aromatic street trees.
What’s In Store For the holiday season?
With Christmas sales, Black Friday, and holiday shoppers on the way, the high streets are major return‑on‑investment hotspots. The upward trend in retail growth means footfall will boom, giving businesses prime exposure and letting shoppers enjoy a vibrant marketplace.
Key Takeaway
The UK high street isn’t slipping into oblivion. It’s morphing, expanding, and revving up to welcome holiday crowds. So, next time you’re eyeing your local high street, think of it as the vibe capital—alive, evolving, and ready for the next big thing.
