Riots Deter Shoppers from UK High Streets
- UK high street footfall declines due to riots
- Average 4.8% decline in footfall from Sunday to Wednesday compared to previous week
- 7.5% drop on Wednesday due to expected new wave of rioting and counter-protests
- Northern England and Yorkshire hit hardest with 12.9% decrease
- Footfall lower than usual during summer holidays
- Retailers discuss safety concerns at British Retail Consortium meeting
Retailers in the UK are experiencing a significant decline in footfall on high streets as rioting and vandalism deter shoppers from visiting these areas. According to MRI software, footfall dropped by an average of 4.8% between Sunday and Wednesday compared to the previous week, while all retail destinations only saw a decrease of 2.7%. On Wednesday alone, footfall on high streets fell by 7.5% due to anticipated rioting and counter-protests. Northern England and Yorkshire were particularly affected with a 12.9% drop in footfall during the same period. The decline is especially notable as it occurs during the summer holidays when foot traffic typically increases. The British Retail Consortium held a meeting with 190 retailers to discuss staff safety concerns amidst theft and vandalism incidents.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the impact of rioting on UK high streets’ footfall and mentions relevant data from MRI software. It also discusses the effect on retailers and staff safety. However, it includes a personal perspective in the last sentence which is not universally accepted truth.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information on the impact of riots on footfall in UK high streets and mentions some data to support its claims. However, it could benefit from more analysis or context about the long-term trends and consequences for retailers.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: UK retailers and related companies
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the impact of rioting on UK high streets, leading to a decline in footfall and affecting retailers’ sales. This has financial relevance as it impacts the performance of these businesses and potentially their stock prices.
Presence Of Extreme Event: Yes
Nature Of Extreme Event: Major Accident
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Moderate
Extreme Rating Justification: The extreme event mentioned is a result of rioting and looting, leading to vandalism and theft, causing a significant decrease in footfall on UK high streets and affecting the safety of shop staff.
www.retailgazette.co.uk