UPDATE: Boxing Day 2024 has emerged as a “bumper day” for UK retail destinations, with data revealing an impressive 4.4% increase in shopper footfall compared to last year. This surge marks the strongest uptick in over a decade, according to analysts from MRI Software.
The significant rise in visitors was especially pronounced between 5 PM and 11 PM, when foot traffic peaked across high streets, retail parks, and shopping centers. This year’s Boxing Day saw shoppers eagerly returning to stores after Christmas Day closures, seeking out post-holiday bargains.
Analyst Jenni Matthews from MRI Software commented, “We did see a slow start to the day for high streets and shopping centers. However, the evening surge indicates people were not just shopping—they were also engaging in leisure activities and dining out.”
Footfall statistics reveal that high streets experienced a 3.6% increase, while retail parks enjoyed an impressive 8.8% boost. Shopping centers recorded a 2.1% rise in visitors on December 26, 2024. Despite some major retailers like Marks and Spencer, Aldi, and Lidl remaining closed, supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco were operational, contributing to the overall increase.
Matthews noted that the boost was likely influenced by events and attractions still happening in towns and cities, particularly in coastal areas, which saw an extraordinary 16.1% increase in footfall. “It’s likely to be event-driven,” she explained, “as many stores were closed yesterday.”
Overall, Boxing Day 2024 has provided a significant early indicator that the retail sector may conclude the year on a positive note, despite earlier challenges. The increase in shopping activity on December 26 is a relief for retailers, suggesting that consumer confidence may be recovering.
As the retail landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how this momentum carries into the New Year. With many stores not reopening until today, the focus shifts to the potential for leisure and hospitality sectors to benefit from the annual uplift.
In summary, Boxing Day 2024 has proven to be a landmark day for UK retail, marking a hopeful turning point for the industry as it heads towards a new year.
