Weather and budget dampen footfall figures in October
Following some encouraging months for the retail sector here, October brought some disappointment with a reduction in footfall.
In the four weeks from 4th to 31st October, footfall across Northern Ireland decreased by 3.1% (year-on-year), down from 2.1% in September.
Meanwhile, footfall in Belfast decreased by 5.3% (year-on-year), down from 0-0.1% in September. Providing some promise, shopping centre footfall increased by 1.3%, down from 2.0% the previous month.
The latest figures from NIRC-Sensormatic reflects a continued caution on the part of shoppers.
“The regular news coverage about the economy and speculation about the budget appears to have made shoppers more cautious. In addition, the stormy weather in the third week undoubtedly kept many potential shoppers indoors at home,” said Director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium, Neil Johnston.
“Retailing clearly remains a tough challenge everywhere at the moment with decline in footfall even worse in England, Scotland and Wales. Shopping centres across Northern Ireland were the exception to the rule with a modest uplift of 1.3% – in contrast Belfast was down by 5.3%.
“The political uncertainty in Northern Ireland, including an Executive that has failed to set a budget all year, may be discounted by many but stability is disliked by consumers and businesses. NIRC would encourage all our political leaders to redouble their efforts, get back around the table and thrash out a budget – preferably one that doesn’t add costs to businesses and put pressure on prices in the shops in the run up to Christmas.”
Andy Sumpter, Head of Consulting & Analytics – EMEA for Sensormatic added: “October brought a sharp reversal in fortunes for Northern Ireland’s retail destinations, with footfall declining by -3.1% year-on-year.
“The result follows three consecutive months of growth and represents the weakest performance since April, suggesting that the positive momentum seen during late summer proved difficult to sustain as the Golden Quarter began.
“Adverse weather conditions associated with Storm Boelo caused significant disruption to shopper activity during the month, with many consumers choosing to postpone trips to retail destinations as conditions deteriorated.
“The weather-related impact added further pressure at a time when households continue to navigate broader economic challenges and exercise caution around discretionary spending.
“Despite October’s setback, Northern Ireland has remained one of the stronger-performing retail markets in recent months. However, with footfall returning to negative territory, attention now turns to the Black Friday period and the festive season beyond. Retailers will be hoping that promotional activity and seasonal demand can help rebuild momentum and encourage consumers back into stores during the most important trading period of the year.”
