According to data released by BRC-Sensormatic, March saw a sharp decline in footfall in UK stores, with an overall decrease of 5,4% compared to the same month in 2024. The decline follows a flat February (-0,2%) and is reflected across all major types of shopping areas: High Streets recorded a -4%, Retail Parks a -1,2% and Shopping Centres a -5,8%.
The decline affected all the nations of the UK: -4,9% in England, -6,6% in Scotland, -8,3% in Wales and -9% in Northern Ireland. According to Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, the absence of Easter in March – celebrated in April this year – had a negative impact on the annual comparison. Despite this, Retail Parks held up better thanks to the combination of shops, restaurants, entertainment and free parking.
London also showed greater resilience than other parts of the country. However, Dickinson stressed that global uncertainties, tariffs and risks of an economic slowdown could further dampen the propensity to purchase in the coming months. He also sounded the alarm on the reform of local taxes, which could penalize many shops rather than help them.
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant for Sensormatic, added that March was disappointing for consumer and business confidence. However, there were some bright spots, such as the 13,4% increase in high streets during Mother's Day week. Retailers are now hoping for a strong Easter to make up for a subdued start to spring.
