London’s West End sees weakest Christmas sales growth since pandemic due to inflation and economic fears.

London’s West End forecasts its weakest Christmas sales growth since the pandemic, with a 1.3% rise in spending to £1.7 billion, hindered by 3.8% inflation and economic uncertainty. Domestic spending is expected to grow just 0.9%, while international visitor spending may rise 1.9% due to high-spending tourists from the UAE, Switzerland, and Qatar. Retailers cite delayed fiscal policy, high prices, and a proposed "super tax" on high-value properties as threats, warning it could cost 4,000 jobs and force 450 store closures. Despite festive preparations and new store openings, businesses urge the government to provide targeted support to sustain the sector.