BREAKING: Boxing Day shopping in the UK has surged, with footfall increasing by an impressive 4.4% compared to last year, marking the strongest growth in over a decade. Retail analysts report that the bustling shopping day on December 26 saw shoppers flocking to high streets, retail parks, and shopping centres, signaling a positive outlook for the retail sector as the year closes.
Despite stores being closed on Christmas Day, shoppers eagerly returned to the streets for post-holiday sales, driving a notable increase in activity. According to data from MRI Software, which tracks footfall across more than 660 retail locations in the UK, the peak shopping hours occurred between 5 PM and 11 PM, when visits surged by an average of 9.6% compared to last year.
High streets experienced a 3.6% rise in foot traffic, while retail parks saw an even stronger uptick of 8.8%. Shopping centres recorded a modest increase of 2.1% on this significant shopping day.
Jenni Matthews, a retail analyst at MRI Software, noted that although there was a slow start for high streets and shopping centres, retail parks attracted early visitors, likely due to the presence of supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco, which remained open. In contrast, major retailers like Marks and Spencer, Aldi, and Lidl were closed, impacting overall footfall.
“The evening peak indicates that many shoppers may have combined shopping with leisure activities, enjoying meals or local events throughout the UK,” Matthews explained. The significant increase in visits suggests that many consumers were eager to take advantage of holiday discounts, with some waiting until the last minute to complete their Christmas shopping.
Coastal towns saw a remarkable increase of 16.1% in shopper numbers, possibly driven by local events such as markets. Matthews emphasized that this uptick is likely event-driven, given that many stores were closed on Christmas Day.
“This proves to be a bumper day for all UK retail destinations,” Matthews stated, adding that despite some stores remaining closed, leisure and hospitality sectors likely benefited from the increase in footfall. As the year draws to a close, this surge in retail activity offers a hopeful indication that the sector may finish on a strong note, overcoming earlier challenges faced throughout the year.
With the rapid pace of shopping and increased consumer engagement, businesses are optimistic about the potential for continued growth in the retail sector as they head into the new year. This Boxing Day could be a pivotal moment for retailers, setting the stage for a robust start to 2024.
