November footfall figures boost retailers’ festive hopes

An increase in footfall across Northern Ireland last month has brought a welcome boost to retailers in the golden quarter.

Footfall across NI increased by 2.7% in November, up from -0.2% in October, while footfall in Belfast increased by 1.1% in the same period, up from -0.7% the previous month.

Meanwhile, shopping centre footfall increased by 4.1% in November, up from +0.4% in October. The latest figures from the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium-Sensormatic data are encouraging for retailers, with the recent rebound in footfall figures a welcome reprieve.

“Shoppers were out and about in November visiting Northern Ireland’s retail destinations – looking to grab bargains and spreading out the cost ahead of Christmas,” said Director of the NIRC, Neil Johnston.

“The so-called Golden Quarter is crucial for retailers and these are positive figures. Retailers will be hoping that the recent investments in stores in Belfast city centre and in a number of other key retail hubs will continue to attract shoppers as we head towards Christmas Day.

“The figures for November and a number of other recent months have shown Northern Ireland often doing better than the rest of the UK. This reflects the fact that the NI economy has weathered the recent economic challenges better than the rest of the country – our unemployment figures and economic growth figures are better.”

Mr Johnston added that it remains a challenging environment and the UK Budget will do very little to help.

“Indeed, retailers face the prospect of a widening chasm with GB with regard to the business rates they pay,” he said.

“England and Wales will be bringing in rate cuts next year – the Northern Ireland Executive and our local councils need to follow suit.”

Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions said the November rise in NI footfall bucked the UK trend of decline.

“November may have been dominated by caution across the UK, but Northern Ireland offers glimmers of hope,” he said.

“The golden quarter isn’t over yet, and with four of our predicted Top Five shopping days still to come, the festive season could deliver an even stronger finish.

“A last-minute rush may top off the year, turning resilience into celebration. With the right balance of value, convenience and experience, there’s still time to make December count.”