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

“Today’s data highlights a relatively steady month for UK retail, in line with most expectations. While footfall remains below last year’s levels, there have been encouraging signs of activity in recent months, particularly around Easter and the short spell of good weather. The two May bank holidays delivered a mixed bag of results, but still offered retailers valuable trading opportunities to capitalise on consumer interest.

“In the face of this mixed picture, and despite ongoing economic pressures, retailers remain pragmatic. Uncertainty has characterised the UK retail sector for the past decade, and we’re not out of the woods yet. However, UK retail has learned to adapt to this paradigm and new pressures are just another object lesson in the importance of building resilience internally to prepare for any eventuality.”