The reopening of retailers in England and Wales has brought encouraging news for the West End of London, which has been heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from the New West End Company and Springboard shows a significant increase in footfall in the week leading up to Saturday. Compared to the same period last year, footfall rose by over 600% and compared to the previous week, it increased by more than 120%. However, footfall was still nearly 60% lower than the levels recorded during the same week in 2019.
Although footfall is still below pre-pandemic levels, the New West End Company reported that it reached around 54% of the expected number for April, surpassing their initial estimate of 40%. On Saturday, April 17, footfall levels reached approximately 70% of pre-pandemic levels, indicating a positive trend. Overall, footfall during the reopening week was 125% higher compared to last year’s reopening in June.
Jace Tyrrell, Chief Executive of the New West End Company, expressed satisfaction with the rebound and attributed it to the public’s eagerness to reconnect with loved ones and enjoy their favorite brands, as well as the resilience of the area. However, he emphasized the need for continued government support until international shoppers return. Tyrrell also called for an extension of Sunday trading hours in London’s West End and Knightsbridge, stating that it would provide shoppers with the flexibility they need to spend and help generate more revenue for retailers while safeguarding jobs.
The country as a whole also experienced a significant increase in footfall during the reopening week, as reported by Springboard. Shopping centers saw the largest jump with a 126.6% increase, followed by high streets with a 93.2% increase, and retail parks with a 35.3% increase. As a result, footfall in all UK retail destinations is now only 25.4% lower than pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Furthermore, regional cities across the UK saw a 116% increase in footfall, reflecting a broader recovery beyond Central London. However, footfall in cities still lags behind smaller towns, and the gap from 2019 remains substantial, with regional cities outside of London experiencing a decline of -40.3%.
The resurgence in the West End and the overall improvement in footfall across the country provide a positive outlook for the retail industry as it continues to recover from the impacts of the pandemic. Retailers are optimistic that footfall will continue to increase in a safe and sustainable manner, with the eventual return of international shoppers playing a crucial role. In the meantime, government support and flexible trading hours can provide much-needed assistance to retailers, ensuring their long-term resilience and the preservation of jobs.
Useful links:
1. New West End Company
2. Springboard
