UK retail footfall dropped 1.8% in September 2025 due to low confidence, strikes, weather, and high costs.

UK retail footfall fell 1.8% in September 2025 compared to the same month last year, the sharpest drop since August’s 0.4% decline, according to the British Retail Consortium. The drop was driven by low consumer confidence ahead of a potential tax-increasing Budget, along with disruptions from London Tube strikes, heavy rain, and Storm Amy. High streets saw a 2.5% decline, retail parks dropped 0.8%, and shopping centres fell 2%. All UK nations experienced decreases, with Wales hit hardest at 2.5%. The BRC cited last year’s Budget, which added £5 billion in employment costs and introduced a packaging tax, as limiting retailers’ ability to invest. BRC chief Helen Dickinson urged the Chancellor to fulfill a Labour manifesto promise to reduce business rates without increasing burdens. Sensormatic noted a brief back-to-school boost, but ongoing economic pressures dampened activity, with retailers hoping the slowdown is temporary.