Shopper numbers on UK high streets at highest since pandemic

08 Jul 2021

Footfall on UK high streets, shopping centres and retail parks in June was at the highest since the start of the coronavirus crisis.

However, figures were still trailing 2019 levels.

The biggest footfall gains were registered on high streets throughout the country, as hospitality restrictions eased, with numbers up by a third in June compared to May.

The start of June recorded the highest number of shoppers, which coincided with a bank holiday.

However, footfall at retail destinations then fell week on week for the remainder of the month, with the ‘freedom day’ delay announcement also impacting shopper numbers.

Retail parks performed well in comparison to other shopping destinations, with footfall reducing 4.1% in June compared to the same month in 2019.

However, shopping centres and high streets are still trailing, with footfall reducing 29.1% and 27.2% respectively.

Yet, footfall could be in for a rise in July due to school holidays and the full easing of coronavirus restrictions.

According to Diane Wehrle, marketing and insights director at Springboard: “Moving into July, the opportunity for bricks and mortar retail to attract back consumers is significant.

“The removal of restrictions set for 19th July and the greater freedoms this offers – coinciding with the school summer holiday period – is likely to deliver a fresh incentive for consumers to visit bricks and mortar destinations.”