Consumer caution ahead of Budget drives drop in footfall - BRC

Footfall in the United Kingdom dropped by 1.8% in September, reflecting consumer caution ahead of a potential tax-rising Budget, as reported by the British Retail Consortium.

According to the British Retail Consortium, total footfall in the United Kingdom decreased by 1.8% in September compared to the same month last year.
Consumer confidence waned due to speculation of a tax-increasing Budget, leading to reduced shopping activity on the High Street during September.
Additional factors affecting footfall included London tube strikes and heavy rainfall, which further discouraged shoppers in the United Kingdom and particularly in Scotland.

Why It Matters

The drop in footfall signals an ongoing trend of consumer caution that could impact retail sales and the broader economy, especially ahead of fiscal changes. Understanding these patterns is crucial for businesses and policymakers in adapting strategies for future challenges.