BRC urges Government to cut cost of doing business as September footfall drops 2.9%
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has urged the Government to reduce the cost of doing business ahead of this month’s Budget after new figures show that retail footfall declined sharply in September.
According to BRC-Sensormatic data, total UK footfall fell by 2.9% year-on-year after a 1.7% decline in August.
Subscribe to TRBThe end of summer hit high streets and shopping centres hardest, with respective declines of 3% and 3.5%.
Meanwhile, retail park footfall fell by 1.7%.
Looking at the different regions of the UK, footfall decreased by 0.7% year-on-year in Scotland, 3% in Wales and 3.4% in England. In contrast, Northern Ireland saw an increase of 2.1%.
Helen Dickinson, BRC chief executive, said: “September was sluggish for footfall as the end of summer saw fewer shoppers heading out. While some seasonal slowdown is expected, this September saw a sharp decline compared to last year, with high streets and shopping centres suffering most.
“Retailers in Northern Ireland will be encouraged to see footfall holding up, but as the only part of the UK to buck the trend, the wider picture remains gloomy.
“As we enter the crucial final quarter, retailers will do all they can to attract shoppers with great value and choice. But until Government acts to reduce the cost of doing business, retailers are fighting with one hand tied behind their backs.
“By pulling back from another increase in business rates, the Chancellor can use his first Budget to unlock vital investment in our shops and high streets, help retailers keep prices down and provide jobs across the country.”
