07 January 2025
Bira has warned that disappointing footfall figures for December show mounting pressures on independent retailers, with concerning implications for 2025 as business costs continue to rise.
The latest BRC-Sensormatic IQ Footfall Monitor report revealed decreases across most retail locations:
- Total UK retail footfall decreased by 2.2% (YoY)
- High Street footfall decreased by 2.7% (YoY)
- Shopping Centre footfall decreased by 3.3% (YoY)
- Retail Park footfall remained flat at 0.0% (YoY)
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "These figures paint a worrying picture of the challenges facing independent retailers. The decline in footfall during the crucial Christmas trading period is particularly concerning, as this is typically when retailers need to generate the revenue that will see them through the quieter months ahead."
"Looking ahead to 2025, we see little reason for optimism unless the government takes decisive action. With retailers facing increases in National Insurance contributions, National Living Wage, and business rates, many independent stores will struggle to maintain viability. We urgently call on the government to reconsider the planned business rates increase for small retailers – this could be the difference between survival and closure for many independents on our high streets."
Catch up on key industry insights with podcast episodes available now
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
We’re talking to a cross section of our members from across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, and from large department stores to leisure and hospitality.
Listen to the series, available now.
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Related News
-
Government funding boost welcomed by independent retailers
Independent retailers have welcomed government plans to expand access to finance for small businesses, after the Chancellor confirmed a significant scaling up of support through the British Business Bank.
-
The Gift & Lifestyle Consortium reaches its optimistic first six-month target
A leading independent retailers association has marked the six-month milestone of a new industry partnership set up to support the gift, lifestyle and home sectors.
-
Bira mourns death of former President John Lawson
Bira has warned that a new cap on Royal Mail's daily business collection capacity could cause serious problems for small retailers during the most important trading period of the year.
-
Bira and Clarity join forces to support independent hi-fi retailers
A specialist hi-fi trade body has partnered with a leading independent retailers association to give independent electronics retailers access to a wider range of business support.