Footfall at retail hubs around the UK remained strong on Boxing Day. This is based on data fielded by the Market Research Institute (MRI). That wave of last-minute shoppers happened just as most families were wrapping up holiday celebrations and starting to plan for the new year. Retail analyst Jenni Matthews, who tracked foot traffic, noted a noticeable increase. She hopes that will continue in the next few days as shoppers rush in to snap up post-holiday sales.
Even though many retailers have not yet reopened, with December 28 being the earliest, early signs point to a positive shopping climate. Analysis of MRI data showed that as of 3 PM on December 26, consumer response to sales was still pretty lackluster. Visits to high streets were down by 1.5% on the equivalent day in 2024. In contrast, trips to shopping centres dropped 0.6%. More broadly, footfall on retail high streets, shopping centres and retail parks all jumped. It increased 4.4% from the same day last year.
Matthews clarified that family reunions have come to an end. He’s confident that will help result in a spike in foot traffic as the New Year celebration days approach. With family gatherings coming to an end, the new year right around the corner, we do anticipate pedestrian counts to continue to grow over the next few days,” she said. Consumers are still clamoring to take advantage of these sales opportunities as they prepare for the new model year’s big kickoff in 2025. That hope is strained by budget pressures caused by inflation.
Interestingly, the evening of Boxing Day experienced a big spike in footfall as consumers rushed to the sales to get their bargains. That last-minute surge helped bring foot traffic to its biggest increase in a decade for the annual day of sales. MRI monitors foot traffic in more than 660 high street and retail locations all over the UK. This transactional data provides a holistic look into shopping trends across all sectors.
Beyond retail space, hospitality and leisure venues enjoyed the boost in foot traffic as well. Retailers initially thought shoppers would be drawn toward spending time and money on food and experiences while picking up pantry items. This decision immensely favored those sectors during the busy post-Christmas stretch.
Sales on Boxing Day also received a tepid welcome to start. The sheer, widespread increase in consumer activity, near and far, illustrates a remarkable shopping and spending rebound. With the new year around the corner, retailers are pleased with this progress and hopeful that it will lead to sustained sales growth.