Consumers continue to be cautious causing February footfall to falter
Following a positive January, footfall faltered in February with Northern Ireland footfall decreasing by 2.3% in February (year-on-year), down from 3.8% in January.
Although the figures were disappointing, Northern Ireland fared better when compared to other regions, turning in the best performance of the 12 areas surveyed monthly by NIRC-Sensormatic.
Over the four weeks from 1st to 28th February the number of shoppers out and about was down 2.3% compared to February 2025, while across the UK as a whole the decline was 4.7%.
Shopping Centre footfall decreased by 0.6% in February (year-on-year), down from 4.9% in January while across the month, footfall in Belfast decreased by 2.8% (year-on-year), down from 1.4% in January.
As Director of Northern Ireland Retail Consortium, Neil Johnston explained, Northern Ireland footfall continues to be better than the rest of the UK.
“On this occasion it performed ‘less badly’,” said Neil. “Our economic growth figures and unemployment figures are also slightly more positive, despite this it is probably fair to say that shoppers continue to be cautious.”
Neil added that given the wet weather we have experienced so far this year, it was no surprise that shopping centres were only down by 0.6%, saying that shoppers “gravitated towards shelter”.
“Retailers across the UK are continuing to struggle with rising costs, and consumers are also continuing to face a squeeze of household incomes,” said Neil.
“NIRC continues to make the case that Stormont needs to plan to reduce rates for retail, hospitality and leisure, as is planned for other parts of the UK. This would boost our high streets and retail hubs and help keep prices down for consumers.”
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions said February proved a challenging month for retail across Northern Ireland, adding it was reflective of a month shaped by difficult trading conditions and subdued shopper activity.
“Exceptionally wet weather – a theme across the UK – dampened high street visits and encouraged more consumers to turn to online channels,” said Andy.
“At the same time, the broader economic backdrop continued to weigh on household budgets, with food price inflation and rising unemployment influencing both trip frequency and spending confidence.
“Still, there are reasons to look forward. With Mother’s Day on the horizon and the prospect of brighter, more inviting spring weather ahead, retailers will be hoping for a lift in shopper sentiment – and in footfall – as consumers re-engage and return to stores.”
