UK retail footfall dips 1.3% in October

Retail footfall across the UK fell 1.3% in October compared with the same month last year, according to data from MRI Software. 

The decline was led by a 2.3% drop in high street visits, while shopping centres and retail parks recorded smaller decreases of 0.2% and 0.4% respectively.

The report highlighted that the slowdown was consistent with typical October patterns, as many shoppers delay major purchases ahead of Black Friday and Christmas sales.

In contrast, month on month, footfall increased 1.6% from September, supported by a 2.5% rise in shopping centre visits and a 2.2% uplift on high streets. Retail parks saw a small decline of 0.7%.

However, adverse weather contributed to weaker results mid-month, with Storm Benjamin causing a 1.9% week-on-week drop in visits and high street activity falling 6.1%. 

Footfall rebounded sharply during the school half-term break and Halloween week, rising 8.6% across all destinations, including an 11.5% gain in shopping centres.

Additionally, MRI’s Insights from the Inside survey found that 72% of store managers reported higher in-store sales during half term. 

Around 65% said customers had started Christmas shopping earlier than usual, while 61% reported limited demand for Halloween products.

The night-time economy also strengthened, with post-8pm visits up 0.7% year on year. Retail parks led the increase with 3.3% growth, reflecting continued demand for dining and leisure activities.

Looking ahead, retailers are preparing for the Autumn Budget, Black Friday promotions and the fourth-quarter trading period. 

The MRI Software said: “October’s figures reflected a month of preparation and pause, with retailers closely monitoring economic developments and consumer sentiment closely. The relative resilience of shopping centres and retail parks, combined with steady evening trade and early festive spending patterns, provides a stable footing as the sector enters the crucial final stretch of the year.  

“While caution remains ahead of the Autumn Budget, the Golden Quarter offers opportunity for retailers who leverage data-driven insights to adapt to shifting shopper priorities, maximise experience-led engagement, and drive efficiencies across their entire retail estate portfolio.”