The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has called for the next government to rethink business rates and planning laws to revive shopping destinations after visitor numbers fell again this month.
According to BRC-Sensormatic IQ data, total retail footfall decreased by 3.6% in May, maintaining the downward trend that began last summer. High Street footfall decreased by 2.7%, while Retail Park and Shopper Centre numbers slipped 2.3% and 4.5% respectively.
Poor weather, combined with weak consumer confidence and the shift to working from home, impacted trips to shopping destinations. The BRC noted that retailers will be hoping that warmer weather, coupled with events such as the Euros and Olympics, will boost footfall in the weeks ahead.
Helen Dickinson, the Chief Executive of the trade body, commented: “With an election only five weeks away, political parties have a role to play too by having policies that mean retailers can invest in rejuvenating shopping destinations across the UK.
“A broken business rates system and outdated planning laws are holding back the industry – politicians of all stripes must address these issues. This will boost economic growth, lift consumer spirits, and help drive more shoppers back to our high streets and other retail destinations.”
