Retail footfall in November saw its greatest month on month increase since 2013 despite chaos from storm Bert.
Footfall across all retail destinations in November rose by 2.1% from October as half term boosted traffic, according to MRI Software.
The increase was led by a 3.6% boost in shopping centre footfall, followed by a 3.4% increase in retail parks, and a slight 0.8% rise in high street footfall.
Annual footfall across all destinations saw no change, but high streets and retail parks saw a 0.2% and 1.7% uptick in footfall respectively. Shopping centres recorded a decline of 2.2%.
Weekday footfall rose by 1% year on year in November, but weekend activity fell by 2.6%.
MRI added that the footfall levels in the first week of November grew by 6.9% from the week before, driven by the school half term.
Storm Bert was most likely a key driver for the 4.6% week on week decline in footfall during the last week of the month.
MRI Software marketing and insights director Jenni Matthews said: “Looking ahead, Black Friday falls a week later when compared to last year and provides a double whammy for retail in terms of December footfall.
“With payday at the end of the week, likely to be the final one for many before Christmas, this could spark a flurry of consumer activity of Black Friday.
“Last year, Black Friday served as the catalyst for festive shopping despite the challenges that faced consumers, and this year could see a similar story.
“Retailers are already preparing for increased footfall, and potentially sales, with 74% of those surveyed in MRI Software’s insights from the inside poll stating they will be adjusting their opening hours in the lead up to Christmas to maximise sales.
“Experts from PwC revealed that Black Friday spending in the UK is set to reach £7.1bn which is up by 36% from last year.
“November’s results suggest that retail footfall is stabilising which has been further supported by a shift in key holidays and consumer resilience.
“Retailers should be leveraging data-driven insights to really help them plan and prepare for the final leg of the golden quarter, ensuring the year closes out on a strong note.”
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