Shoppers Stay Away from Stores Amid Extreme Heat
- Retail footfall declined in June due to the heatwave
- UK total footfall dropped 1.8% in five weeks to 5 July
- Retail parks saw a 1.1% drop in footfall compared to 0.2% growth in May
- High street footfall declined 3% last month, up from the 2.5% drop in May
- Shopping centres had a 1.6% decline in footfall, an improvement from the 2.3% decrease in May
- Manchester and Birmingham recorded positive footfall for the third consecutive month
- New shops and concerts attracted crowds in some areas
The extreme heatwave in June led to a decline in retail footfall across the UK, according to data from the British Retail Consortium. Total UK footfall dropped by 1.8% in five weeks to 5 July, compared to a 1.7% decline in May. Retail parks experienced the largest drop with shopper numbers down 1.1%, while there was some recovery in shopping centres as footfall decreased by 1.6%, an improvement from the 2.3% decline in May. High streets were particularly affected due to extreme heat and severe thunderstorms, discouraging visits. British Retail Consortium CEO Helen Dickinson stated that shoppers remained cautious, making it difficult for retailers to generate strong footfall into their stores. However, Manchester and Birmingham recorded positive footfall for the third consecutive month, thanks to new shops opening and major concerts drawing crowds.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the impact of extreme heat on shopper footfall in the UK, citing data from the British Retail Consortium and including quotes from their chief executive. It also mentions specific locations with positive footfall trends. However, it includes a promotional link to sign up for a newsletter and mentions future retailers’ plans, which could be seen as slightly speculative.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the impact of extreme weather on footfall and mentions specific locations with positive results. However, it contains some filler content by promoting their newsletter and suggesting to read about six retailers who have launched new store concepts in 2025.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: No
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the impact of extreme heat on shopper footfall, which can affect retail sales and potentially impact companies’ revenues in the UK. However, it does not directly mention any specific financial markets or companies being impacted.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no mention of an extreme event as the main topic and it did not happen in the last 48 hours.
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