Matt Clark, EMEA Leader, Retail, and Partner & Managing Director at AlixPartners, comments on BRC-Sensormatic Footfall Monitor statistics

"Today’s data speaks to the relatively downbeat UK retail landscape and the ongoing challenges faced by the high street. Although shoppers took advantage of post-Christmas sales in January, that momentum faded in February with poor weather leading to flat footfall in stores. Rising living costs continue to squeeze discretionary consumer spending and feedback from retailers isn’t encouraging in light of increasing costs. While food retail remains resilient as a necessity, non-food retailers are facing an uphill battle with weak consumer demand. 
 
“With further cost pressures landing in April, retailers are bracing for a perfect storm. Rising National Insurance contributions, higher business rates, and an increase in the national minimum wage will tighten margins further and may cause price increases. Those who can adapt by rethinking pricing strategies and leveraging automation or similar efficiencies will be in a strong position to remain competitive."