Matt Clark, EMEA Leader of Retail at AlixPartners, comments on the September BRC-Sensormatic Footfall Monitor

“September’s figures are a disappointing end to the summer. A near 3% drop in footfall and the fact that shopping centres and high streets fared worst shows how much pressure physical retail remains under. Retail parks held up better, which suggests people are still making planned, purpose-led trips but are less inclined to browse.

“With the golden quarter now underway, the margin for error is shrinking. Many retailers will be relying on Christmas and other seasonal moments to recover lost ground, but they are doing so with costs still high and consumers watching every pound. The upcoming Budget matters more than ever. Retailers need a clear sign that the Government recognises the cost burden they carry, and that it favours lasting reform over short-term fixes.

“In the meantime, fewer visits to stores means each and every one has to count. Retailers that give shoppers a genuine reason to make the trip, whether through events, in-store services or offers shaped by their own customer data, will be best placed to turn footfall into sales over the coming months.”