SRC: Dwindling footfall in Scotland prompts election plea

Data from the latest SRC-Sensormatic IQ Footfall Monitor shows the decline is steeper than the UK average of 3.6%. Shopping centres also saw a 1.8% decrease, though this was slightly better than April’s figures. Notably, Edinburgh recorded its first footfall decline in two and a half years.

This trend is a concern for retailers as they face rising costs and strive for profitability. The Scottish Retail Consortium’s director, David Lonsdale, highlighted the need for policymakers to boost economic growth and consumer confidence.

He said: “Shopper footfall in May was a damp squib with visits to Scottish stores dwindling compared to the year before. Whilst failing to match the heights of last May, when an extra bank holiday and the King’s Coronation provided a lift, was not a surprise this was still an underwhelming performance.

“Indeed, May’s performance was the weakest since October and the eighth month in a row of sub-par foot-traffic.

“The disappointing figures were felt across all retail destinations. The declines in Glasgow and shopping centres were less pronounced than in April. Conversely after a stellar run of growth Edinburgh recorded its first fall in footfall in two and a half years.”

Mr Lonsdale continued: “While there is rarely an exact correlation between footfall performance and retail sales growth, these figures will be a worry as shopkeepers contend with greater outlays on statutory costs whilst striving to trade profitably.

“Retailers are playing their part in trying to tempt shoppers however there is more policymakers can do to assist. The clock is firmly ticking down to the unveiling of the political parties’ election manifestos and publication of the new First Minister’s Programme for Government and refreshed Tax Strategy.

“The retail industry, Scotland’s largest private sector employer, is looking for concrete measures to boost economic growth, lift consumer spirits, and help rejuvenate our high streets and retail destinations.”

Andy Sumpter, retail consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions, suggested retailers may be hoping the decline is a temporary “blip”, and that upcoming events like the European Football Championships and Olympics will encourage more shoppers to return.