Data from MRI Software shows that UK high-street visits fell by 2% on Black Friday compared with the previous Friday. This decline highlights a quieter start to the holiday shopping period. Footfall also dropped 7.2% compared with the same period last year, signalling a deeper-rooted shift in consumer behaviour.

Although a few office-heavy zones in central London recorded slight increases, most retail districts faced reduced traffic. This pattern points to a more selective approach from shoppers, who are limiting store visits and choosing their purchases more carefully.

Industry observers link this trend to the broader cost-of-living pressures, with households prioritising essentials. Analysts note that many consumers simply do not feel confident enough to spend freely, even during major promotional events.

📉 Economic pressure weighs on retail and growth outlook

The footfall slowdown comes at a moment of wider economic anxiety. KPMG warned that weak consumer spending and rising unemployment could limit growth over the next year, forecasting UK GDP growth of only 1% in 2026.

At the same time, two major industry bodies — the CBI and the Institute of Directors — reported exceptionally low business confidence. Many firms cited:

• Rising operating costs
• Uncertainty about consumer demand
• Pressure from higher interest rates
• Weak margins heading into the festive season

Hospitality businesses raised additional concerns. With pandemic-related rate relief ending, pubs and leisure venues fear higher business-rate costs could undermine their ability to trade through winter.

One sector representative warned that many venues may struggle to stay profitable as operating costs rise and customer spending falls.

Retail groups say that if the current trend continues, both small shops and large chains may face a challenging December — typically the most important month for revenue.

🔄 Shifting shopping habits and mixed online performance

While the high street slowed, online shopping showed mixed momentum. IMRG reported a drop in online sales on Thursday before Black Friday, followed by a rebound on Tuesday. This uneven pattern suggests many shoppers are searching more widely for deals, waiting for last-minute discounts, or avoiding unnecessary spending altogether.

Retail analysts say the shift reflects a growing preference for planned, budget-controlled purchasing, rather than spontaneous buying. The combination of inflation, energy costs and job-market concerns continues to shape how households approach the holiday shopping season.

For retailers, these early signs indicate a potentially subdued December. Many in the sector now expect that shoppers will remain highly selective, focusing on essentials and delaying non-essential purchases until the final days before Christmas.