UK Retail Footfall Declines for Second Consecutive Year

A challenging 2024 for retailers saw shopper visits drop 2.2%, with December marking a particularly weak end to the year.

The British Retail Consortium reported a 2.2% decline in UK retail footfall for 2024, following a similar drop in 2023.
December, traditionally a peak shopping period, saw footfall fall by 2.5% compared to the same period in 2023, capping a disappointing year.
Cost of living pressures, the rise of online shopping, and low consumer confidence were identified as key factors behind the declining foot traffic.
Retailers are adopting creative strategies, such as in-store events and experiential shopping, to attract customers, though overall spending remains subdued.
Calls for government action on business rates reform have intensified, with retailers arguing that outdated tax policies hinder investment in high streets and town centers.