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Shoppers flocked to Britain’s high streets and retail parks to buy last-minute gifts on Christmas Eve, giving a boost to retailers amid a challenging consumer backdrop.
According to preliminary data, more shoppers visited stores and retail locations than a year ago.
Data from retail technology specialists MRI Software shows the number of customers by 1pm on Christmas Eve was 2.4% higher than the same day a year earlier.
This also represents an increase of 20.5% compared to a week earlier, with many Britain They are leaving their purchases late.
It said this was driven by the large number of shoppers flocking to retail parks, especially for last-minute shopping.
Footfall at the retail park increased 6.6% compared to a year ago and was up 36.3% week-on-week.
Meanwhile, footfall on high streets increased by 1.1% year-on-year and shopping centers were up 1%.
Jenny Matthews, retail analyst at MRI Software, told the Press Association: “It has been a difficult year for retailers as they first felt the impact of last year’s autumn budget, which led to increased labor costs.
“Many are now expecting even higher business rates next year.
“The footfall shows that people are still out and shopping in their towns and cities across the country.”
Regional data revealed that wales Last-minute shopping saw a particular surge, with the number of shoppers up 7.9% year-on-year.
Many buyers also participated London For receiving gifts, it has recorded an increase of 2.6%.