Summary
On Boxing Day in the UK, there was a late surge of shoppers, leading to increased foot traffic at retail locations compared to previous years. However, this did not necessarily result in higher spending, as forecasts suggested a decrease in overall sales. Despite challenges throughout the year, retailers saw some positive trends as people headed out for post-Christmas bargains.
Key Facts
- Boxing Day shopper traffic in the UK reached its highest point in a decade, with footfall up 4.4% compared to the previous year.
- Data from MRI Software showed that shopping visits peaked in the evening from 5pm to 11pm.
- Despite increased foot traffic, spending was predicted to be lower, with Barclays estimating a £1bn drop in sales compared to last year.
- By 3pm on Boxing Day, high street visits were down 1.5% and shopping centre visits were down 0.6% compared to the year before.
- MRI counts footfall data from over 660 retail locations across the UK.
- Retail analyst Jenni Matthews noted that hospitality and leisure venues likely benefited from increased foot traffic.
- Footfall also increased on the Saturday following Boxing Day, rising 1.6% compared to the same date last year.
- Analysts noted 2025 as a difficult year for consumers due to rising prices impacting household budgets.
