Holiday could be make or break for many retailers
Shopper numbers are expected to fall by 4 per cent to 5 per cent this Easter compared with last year, according to business information group FootFall.

The number of visitors to stores have been consistently down so far this year. In a statement, FootFall said difficult trading conditions mean Easter will be make or break for many retailers. Valentine's Day and Mother's Day have already provided a boost to troubled retailers this year.

Good Friday and Saturday will be important for the high street and shopping centres, with last-minute Easter preparations driving sales, while Bank Holiday Monday will be key for the big retail parks and garden centres. The weather is expected to improve this weekend, which should result in people hitting the shops to get their homes and gardens ready for the summer.

FootFall marketing manager Natasha Burton said: 'Overall predictions are that there will be winners and losers this Easter and those that haven't planned well in advance are likely to suffer.'

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