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High streets and shopping centres across the UK saw a 3.4% increase in footfall over the four-day Easter weekend, according to data from MRI Software, following a period of subdued trading ahead of the holiday as retailers faced rising inflation linked to conflict in Iran.
High streets performed strongest with a 4.1% uplift in visits between 3 April and 6 April. The figures represent a significant improvement over the previous year, when footfall declined by 7.5% during the April 2025 holiday period.
Activity peaked on Easter Monday (6 April), aided by improved weather conditions and local events. High street footfall rose by 21.1% on that day alone compared to the same period 12 months ago.
Retail parks and shopping centres also recorded growth on Monday, with visits increasing by 5.2% and 9% respectively. The weekend remains the second most significant trading event for the industry after Christmas.
Jenni Matthews, marketing director at MRI Software, said: “These trends continue to highlight that, when the perfect conditions align, the holiday period continues to deliver a welcome boost for UK’s retail destinations.”
