Retail destinations across the UK see strongest recovery in months after February slump.
Shoppers returned to Britain’s high streets in March, with footfall rising across all retail destinations in a sign that consumer activity may be stabilising after a difficult start to the year.
Total UK footfall increased by 2.4% year-on-year, a marked turnaround from the 4.7% decline recorded in February, as improving weather and seasonal spending helped draw consumers back into stores.
High streets saw a 2.0% increase, reversing February’s sharp 5.4% drop, while retail parks and shopping centres also recorded solid gains, rising 2.5% and 2.6% respectively. The recovery suggests a broad-based improvement in shopper confidence, despite continued pressure on household finances.
The rebound was felt across the country, with footfall rising in every nation. Northern Ireland led the way with a 4.9% increase, followed by Scotland (3.2%), England (2.3%), and Wales (1.6%).
Retail analysts said the figures point to a tentative recovery in physical shopping, following months of subdued activity driven by high inflation and rising borrowing costs.
However, the outlook remains uncertain. Ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, continue to push up energy costs — a factor that could weigh on both retailers and consumers in the months ahead.
Industry figures cautioned that while March’s rebound is encouraging, it may prove fragile if household budgets come under renewed strain. Rising fuel prices and broader economic uncertainty could yet dampen spending as the year progresses.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “With Easter and the school holidays falling earlier this year, retailers were expecting a stronger boost to footfall than March delivered.
“Shopping centres outperformed other locations, and cities like Manchester continued to do well, but overall growth fell short of expectations. Warmer weather might help sustain footfall in the months ahead, but without an Easter uplift in April, momentum is far from guaranteed.
“Looking ahead, the conflict in the Middle East is weighing heavily on both retailer and consumer confidence, with further pressure on the cost of living potentially likely to hit footfall. Government can play its part supporting households by easing pressures created by domestic policy costs. Cutting these costs would free up retailers to invest more in value, experience and their in-store offer – the things that help footfall and create more vibrant local economies.”
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic, said: “March brought a welcome return to growth for UK retail footfall, with total retail rising by +2.4% – the first positive month in nearly a year.
“On the surface, this marks an encouraging shift in momentum, however, the improvement needs to be viewed in context.
“Much of March’s uplift was driven by an Easter boost, with Easter week falling into this year’s March trading period. Last year’s comparison was also relatively weak due to the later timing of Easter, amplifying the apparent growth. Without the final week’s Easter bump, March would likely have remained in negative territory – raising questions over how April may perform, particularly against much stronger comparables last year.
“Ongoing pressures continue to shape consumer behaviour. Declining confidence, geopolitical uncertainty and rising living costs – especially fuel – are still encouraging caution and fewer discretionary trips. March’s return to growth is a step in the right direction, but the real test will be whether footfall can hold once the Easter boost passes and tougher comparisons return.”
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