Recent data from Huq Industries reveals nuanced trends in footfall, dwell time, and weekday visitation across major retail centres in the UK. As of the week ending September 22, 2024, different regions show varied patterns in retail activity, reflecting the dynamic nature of consumer behavior in these areas.
Major Retail Centres Daily Footfall
Regional Analysis
In the West Midlands, there has been a slight increase in average daily footfall year on year. However, the average visit dwell time has decreased by 1.1% compared to the same period last year. The working weekday visitation share also saw a significant increase, suggesting a shift in consumer shopping habits towards weekdays.
London experienced a significant increase in footfall year on year, coupled with an increase in average dwell time, showing a strong rebound in activity. The working weekday visitation share in London also increased, reflecting a steady return of workers/ commuters during the weekdays.
The North East and Scotland also showed positive trends in footfall with year-on-year increases. However, Scotland experienced a decrease in weekday visitation share.
The South West and Northern Ireland displayed contrasting trends. The South West saw a slight decline in footfall year on year, but an increase in dwell time, suggesting that while fewer people visited, those who did spent more time in retail centres. Northern Ireland, on the other hand, showed a strong increase in footfall year on year, paired with a significant increase in dwell time.
Market Outlook
Based on the direction of the latest data and trends from the previous year, it is anticipated that the upcoming four weeks will see continued growth in footfall across most regions, with particular strength in London due to its robust recovery.
These regional variations highlight the diverse ways in which consumer behavior is evolving across the UK, influenced by local factors and broader economic conditions. Retailers and commercial real-estate companies can leverage this data to tailor their strategies to meet the changing preferences and habits of their customers.
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