Retailers hoping for a boost as shoppers hit the streets

Retailers are hoping for a boost before Christmas Day as shoppers hit the streets.

Footfall is expected to increase this weekend as last-minute shoppers descend.

“One-fifth of the year’s sales are made in the ‘golden quarter’ so it is a very important trading period.”

Figures from retail analysts MRI Software show that over the weekend of December 14 and 15 footfall rose by an average of 19.5% week-on-week, but they added much of this will have been a rebound from Storm Darragh.

MRI said the rising figures should inspire confidence in retailers before this weekend, dubbed “panic weekend”.

A Trafford Centre spokesperson said the November footfall was up 14% year-on-year, while sales are also up year-on-year at the Manchester shopping centre in the health and beauty category compared to November 2023.

They added: “We’re prepared for a busy weekend, as visitors from far and wide make the most of all the shopping, leisure and festive experiences on offer here at the centre.”