England’s victory against the Netherlands last night resulted in a win for the UK’s high streets yesterday with footfall rising by +4.8% week-on-week, much to the benefit of local leisure and hospitality establishments.
Jenni Matthews, marketing and insights director at MRI Software, explained: “The greatest uplift in activity occurred during the early evening period between 17:00-20:00 where activity rose by +5.2% compared with declines in retail parks (-8.6%) and shopping centres (-2.5%) suggesting many had likely headed into towns and cities to bars, pubs or venues showing the game to watch with friends and family. This was also evident with footfall continuing to rise after the game by +2.5% week-on-week.
“For the retail sector, ahead of Sunday’s final, this could also mean a boost in England memorabilia and merchandise as people look to support the team in any which way they can. It could possibly lead to heightened activity for retail parks, grocery stores in particular, as consumers look to stock up on essentials for watch parties and gatherings at home.”
