Shoppers returned to British high streets in droves when non-essential retail reopened on April 12, the Retail Gazette reports. In England and Wales, footfall across high streets, retail parks, and shopping centres was up 330% compared to the same week in April last year. Footfall across all UK shopping destinations was up 87.8% week-on-week.

High streets experienced a 93.2% surge in footfall, and shopping centres fared even better at 126.6%. Even the freezing temperatures experienced in some parts of the country didn’t put the shoppers off, as there were reports of queues forming from 7am outside the larger high street shopfronts.

The research was carried out by Springboard. Their insights director Diane Wehrle said: “These results provide concrete evidence of the desire of shoppers to return to bricks and mortar stores and destinations. The key issue for retail destinations will be whether this momentum can be sustained.”

The promising start to the revival of the high street economy should be strengthened when cafes, pubs and restaurants can serve customers indoors again. Wehrle commented:

“The reopening of indoor hospitality on May 17 will provide a further boost to retail destinations as many indoor venues are located in High Streets and shopping centres.”

The BBC reports that the latest data from PwC’s Consumer Sentiment Index shows that consumer confidence is now at its highest level since the tracking of data began in 2008. The consultants explain that shoppers have a pent-up demand, having had fewer options to spend their disposable income over the last 12 months.

The company also points to the success of the vaccination rollout among the most vulnerable and elderly members of the population, which has led to a surge in optimism and confidence across the country. People are now ready to reengage in favourite activities such as shopping, eating out and going on holiday.

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