Northern Ireland shoppers in short supply
Shopper footfall across Belfast fell by 0.7% in October compared to the year before, latest figures show, mirroring the situation across the UK as a whole.
While Northern Ireland fared relatively better with a small 0.2% decline, shopping centres saw a small but positive uptick.
The latest data from NIRC-Sensormatic for the four weeks from 5th October to 1st November shows that Northern Ireland footfall decreased by 0.2% (year-on-year), up from -0.5% in September, while shopping centre footfall increased by 0.4% in October, up from -0.2% in September.
Director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium, Neil Johnston said everyone was keeping a close eye on the upcoming Budget while remaining hopeful of a busy golden quarter.
“Overall, shoppers remain scarce and the absence of foot-traffic on our high streets and the other retail hubs must be addressed by both the UK and Stormont administrations,” said Neil Johnston.
“High streets and other retail hubs across Northern Ireland are focal points of not just the local economy but also of local communities. Year after year trading gets that little bit tougher for retailers and shoppers appear less frequently.
“The challenges facing retailers have been exacerbated by the increased financial burdens due to increased employment and packaging costs.
“It doesn’t have to be like this, of course. Retailers will invest and shoppers will return if the environment is right. Northern Ireland needs to show some similar ambition to England when it comes to cutting the business rates burden on retailers, where permanent rates reductions are due to be implemented from April,” he added.
“Our hope and plea is that the NI Executive will similarly act to help stores, otherwise the existing gap between rates levied in NI and England will turn into a chasm. Action to reduce business rates will help shops invest in retail destinations and the customer experience and help revitalise every village, town and city in Northern Ireland.”
Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions added that while Halloween brought a welcome boost, with footfall rising on the day, overall figures suggest that shoppers remain cautious.
“Some retailers responded by bringing forward discounting to encourage early spending, aiming to get ahead of Black Friday and the festive rush,” he said.
“The upcoming Autumn Statement is also in focus, with hopes for measures to support household budgets and business costs.
“While inflation has begun to cool, it continues to shape consumer behaviour. Price-sensitive shoppers are increasingly comparing options and delaying non-essential purchases.
“Many remain ‘spooked’ by economic uncertainty, prioritising value and essentials. October’s slight improvement may signal early seasonal activity, but retailers will be watching closely for signs of momentum in November.”
