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."
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Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
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- 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
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