Footfall Declines but Not as Severe as First Lockdown
- Footfall in UK retail destinations was 57.7% lower compared to the same week in 2019 during Lockdown 2
- High streets and shopping centres saw a 64.7% and 65.7% drop, while retail parks had a 34.3% decline
- Footfall increased by +13.2% between Thursday and Saturday compared to the week before lockdown started
- Springboard’s data shows significant rises in footfall from Thursday onwards across all destination types
- Wales saw a +135.9% increase in footfall after its two-week lockdown ended
- Christmas shopping and early buying may contribute to the resilience of footfall during Lockdown 2
UK retail footfall has shown signs of resilience during the second national lockdown, with a 57.7% drop compared to the same week in 2019, according to Springboard’s data. High streets saw a 64.7% decline and shopping centers experienced a 65.7% drop, while retail parks only had a 34.3% decrease. This is more resilient than the first lockdown when footfall dropped by 75.1%. Between Thursday and Saturday, there was an average increase of +13.2% compared to the previous week’s lockdown start days. Springboard noted significant rises in footfall from Thursday onwards across all destination types. After Wales’ two-week lockdown ended, retail footfall surged by +135.9%. The data suggests that shoppers are making early Christmas purchases to avoid queues and crowds. Diane Wehrle, Springboard’s insight director, attributes the resilience to the proximity of the holiday season and the fact that schools remained open during this lockdown.
Factuality Level: 9
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the changes in footfall across UK retail destinations during the second national lockdown compared to the first one. It cites data from Springboard, a reputable source, and includes relevant details about the differences between high streets, shopping centres, and retail parks. The author presents the information without any personal perspective or exaggeration.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information on the resilience of UK retail destinations during the second national lockdown compared to the first one and offers insights into consumer behavior during the pandemic. It also mentions the impact of Christmas shopping and the effect of lockdowns on footfall. However, it could have included more data or analysis on how different sectors within retail are coping with the situation and the potential long-term consequences for businesses.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: UK retail destinations and companies
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the impact of the second national lockdown on UK retail destinations’ footfall, which can affect the performance of retail businesses and thus have an impact on financial markets and companies in the sector.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: No extreme event mentioned in the text
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