Northern Ireland retailers say shoppers remain scarce

Belfast was the best performing retail destination in July, however failed to buck the continuing falling trend, with numbers down 2.9% compared to last year.

The latest figures from NIRC-Sensormatic show that footfall across Northern Ireland decreased by 3.0% in July (year-on-year), up from -5.2% in June, while shopping centre footfall decreased by 4.1% in July (year-on-year), up from -6.0% in June.

While July was better than June for visits, there was little comfort for retailers as July was still disappointing, according to Director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium Neil Johnston.

“The figures across England, Scotland and Wales are far from encouraging either, however the Northern Ireland situation is the least upbeat,” said Neil.

“Shoppers and retailers are currently experiencing economic challenges. Retailers face increased statutory costs emanating from the last UK Budget, while consumers appear to be reducing shopping activity in response to negative economic news.

“The role of Stormont remains vital in all of this, and it is imperative that the Executive considers how it turns talk about economic regeneration of our high streets and other retail hubs into reality in the coming months.”

Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions added that the early July heatwave may have lifted leisure footfall more than retail.

“One year into a new Labour government, consumer sentiment remains cautious,” said Andy.

“The underlying footfall trend may be improving, but this is still negative growth on negative 2024 figures – raising the question: are shoppers returning, or simply shopping around more as they try to spend less?

“Either way, retailers who can offer value, experience, and convenience may be best placed to convert tentative footfall into lasting growth.”