Mixed picture for retail footfall in February

Northern Ireland footfall saw another decrease in February, falling by 0.1%, down from 3.5% in January.

It represents a mixed picture for retail, as shopping centre footfall saw an increase of 1.1% in February (year-on-year). Footfall in Belfast also increased in February, by 0.1% (year-on-year).

The latest figures from the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium-Sensormatic data shows that footfall across the region was down marginally compared to the same period last year, while in Belfast it was up.

“This slightly weaker performance as compared to January, mirrors the picture across the UK, albeit there is no consistent trend with some regions and cities doing well and others less well,” said Director of NIRC, Neil Johnston.

“Likewise, retail parks seems to be performing better than shopping centres or high streets. The availability of free parking and mixture of stores, including grocery, perhaps gives a rationale for this variation.”

Mr Johnston added this “volatile picture” was perhaps a reflection of both the economic and political context of the country and further afield.

“Consumer confidence is not strong and it is likely to be negatively affected by a range of factors in the next month or so, including National Insurance and other tax charges,” he said.

“Despite the difficult backdrop, however, retailers continue to offer consumers a broad range of goods and in a highly competitive market, with convenience and great value too.”

Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant at EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions added: “After January’s jump-start, retail footfall in February stalled, with retailers seeing a slim decline compared to 2024 last month after many would have been hoping for a more substantial leap building off a strong start to the year.

“Retail parks, consistently one of the top performers in 2024, once again outstripped other retail destinations in February, as the convenience and choice built into their retail offerings again proved popular with customers.

“With Easter falling late and well into April this year, this will undoubtedly, put added pressure on retailers as we head into March. To plug the gap, retailers have an opportunity to create compelling reasons to visit and enhance their offerings with greater convenience and choice, which have been the standout strengths of retail parks performance.”