What the Numbers Actually Tell Us About July’s Shopping Spree
According to BRC’s sensormatic data, the UK footfall dropped by 0.4 % in July year‑over‑year. That’s a small dip compared to the 1.8 % decline in June – so yeah, the summer rush didn’t arrive as big as retailers had fantasised about.
High Street, Retail Park and Shopping Centre Take the Spotlight
- High Street: Fell 1.7 % YoY – a bit better than the 3.0 % slump in June.
- Retail Parks: Gained 1.7 % YoY – a solid rebound from the 1.1 % dip in June.
- Shopping Centres: Down 0.3 % YoY – still smaller than the 1.6 % drop in June.
Nation‑by‑Nation Footfall Findings
- Wales: Up 0.4 % YoY – a bright spot in the gloomy season.
- England: Down 0.3 % YoY – barely a dent.
- Scotland: Down 1.3 % YoY – some mild disappointment.
- Northern Ireland: Largest hit – footfall down 3.0 % YoY.
Insights from the BRC Leader
Helen Dickinson, the BRC’s Chief Executive, called July a “second‑year slump” for shopper numbers. But not all was bleak – Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds all saw improved store visits. And retail parks? They kept on bossing around, with major brands popping up new outlets.
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