The UK retail sector saw continuing decline in customer traffic in June 2025, according to the latest British Retail Consortium (BRC)-Sensormatic data.
Overall footfall decreased by 1.8% compared to the same period of 2024 – a slight improvement from the 2.3% decline observed in June that year, “but still a decline on last year’s decline”.
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The downturn follows a 1.7% drop in May, indicating a persistent challenge for the retail sector.
High Street locations saw a 3% reduction in visitors.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “Extreme weather meant shoppers stayed away from their local stores last month, leading to a decline in footfall across all three key retail locations. High streets were particularly affected as extreme heat was followed by severe thunderstorms, discouraging visits. Subdued consumer sentiment means shoppers remain cautious – making it increasingly difficult for retailers to generate strong footfall into their stores.”
Retail parks also saw a reduction in footfall by 1.1% year-on-year (YoY), a decrease from 0.2% in the previous month.
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By GlobalDataShopping centres reported a 1.6% decrease in footfall YoY in June – smaller that May’s 2.3% fall.
The downward trend in footfall was evident across all nations in the UK.
England saw a 1.4% drop, while Scotland and Wales experienced more significant decreases of 3% and 3.3% respectively.
Northern Ireland faced the most substantial decline, with a 5.2% fall in retail footfall YoY.
Sensormatic Europe, Middle East and Africa retail consultant Andy Sumpter said: “One year on from the general election, with footfall still in the red, it appears that consumer confidence has yet to find its feet. That said, the rate of decline is easing, and with summer now in full swing, retailers have an opportunity to turn seasonal footfall into sustained momentum — especially those who can deliver value, experience and convenience in equal measure.”
