UK retail footfall plunges 4.5% as February rains keep shoppers indoors
Heavy rain across the UK last month kept shoppers away, causing a sharp drop in retail footfall. February saw a 4.5 per cent decline compared to the same month last year—far worse than January's slight dip of 0.6 per cent. London experienced the steepest fall, with visits down by 6.3 per cent.
The relentless wet weather hit shopping centres and high streets hardest. Visits to these locations fell by 5.5 per cent and 5.4 per cent respectively. Retail parks also struggled, recording a 3.1 per cent drop in footfall.
Clothing and footwear stores suffered the most, as fewer people ventured out in the rain. Among major cities, Bristol fared best, with only a 1.6 per cent decrease in shopper numbers.
The retail sector has faced ongoing challenges beyond the weather. Over the past five years, it has lost 250,000 jobs. Hiring costs have also risen, with entry-level wages up by ten per cent in the last year alone.
In response, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has urged the government to reform business rates and other tax policies. Meanwhile, the government has pledged £150 million to revitalise high streets across the country.
The February slump adds to the pressures on UK retailers, already grappling with rising costs and job losses. The government's funding aims to boost struggling high streets, while industry leaders push for broader tax reforms to ease the burden on businesses.
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