Boxing Day Bonanza: Record Footfall Masks Caution in Consumer Spending

This Boxing Day witnessed a significant surge in shoppers seeking bargains, leading to a 4.4% increase in footfall across all UK retail destinations compared to the previous year, as reported by MRI Software. However, while the evening rush was robust, with visits peaking by nearly 9.6% from 5 PM to 11 PM, early data pointed towards muted reactions throughout the day with high street visits down 1.5%. The report indicated that increased foot traffic, driven notably in the later hours, did not necessarily equate to increased spending, with Barclays predicting a £1 billion decrease in consumer expenditure during this year’s sales.

Analyst Jenni Matthews explained that shoppers opted to visit later in the day, which could also imply that hospitality and leisure sectors benefited from the crowds as not many retail establishments reopened until 28 December.

A continued trend of increased visits was noted on the following Saturday, with an average rise of 1.6% in footfall. Given the timing post-family gatherings and as the new year approaches, it’s expected that shopping momentum will carry forth with consumers taking advantage of sales and preparing for New Year’s Eve.

Despite the festive activity, analysts highlighted the challenges faced in 2025 due to rising prices affecting household budgets. Barclays’ consumer spend report confirms that shoppers are expected to spend £3.6 billion this year, down from £4.6 billion last year, reflecting a shift in consumer behaviour as many hesitated to engage with prior shopping events such as Black Friday. Recent observations show a general resistance among consumers, further solidifying the narrative of cautious spending amidst the retail landscape.