Boxing Day in central London was a hive of activity as eager bargain hunters flocked to the streets, marking a return to foot traffic levels reminiscent of pre-pandemic times. According to data from renowned retail analysts MRI Software, nationwide footfall increased by 4% compared to 2022, surpassing initial estimates of a 1.4% rise. High streets experienced an even more remarkable surge, with footfall increasing by 8.8% when compared to the previous year.
The most significant improvement was observed in central London, where footfall rose by nearly 11% from last year and by 1.6% compared to 2019. This surge in foot traffic can be attributed to visitors blending retail therapy with leisure activities, taking advantage of the festive atmosphere in the bustling capital.
However, overall footfall in UK shopping areas remains lower compared to the Boxing Day before the pandemic, with a decrease of 4.5% on high streets and almost 15% nationally. The most substantial decline has been witnessed in retail parks and shopping centres, where foot traffic has dropped by roughly a quarter since 2019.
Jenni Matthews, Marketing and Insights Director at MRI Software, underscored the enduring impact of online shopping on footfall, with an increasing number of consumers commencing their Boxing Day bargain-hunting online, even as early as Christmas Day evening. The challenging cost of living situation and spending time with family during the festive period have also contributed to decreased in-store shopping on Boxing Day.
Another contributing factor to the decrease in footfall on Boxing Day may be the influence of Black Friday, which occurred closer to Christmas this year than usual. Retailers significantly lowering prices during this event may have redirected some of the foot traffic that high street shops typically experience on Boxing Day.
Despite the overall decrease in footfall, central London experienced a robust revival in shopping activity, attributed to the multitude of festive events and attractions drawing in both tourists and out-of-town visitors. The vibrancy of the capital’s holiday season likely played a significant role in attracting more shoppers.
MRI Software’s data is derived from nearly 2,800 counting points on high streets, retail parks, and shopping centres across the UK, offering a comprehensive overview of Boxing Day footfall patterns.
In conclusion, the return of footfall to pre-pandemic levels in central London and the positive increase across the UK signal a hopeful sign for the retail sector as it continues to recover from the impact of the pandemic.
