Shopper traffic in March put on “mediocre” gains, rising +2.4% year-on-year, according to the latest BRC-Sensormatic Footfall Monitor, as inflation concerns linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East compounded consumer caution.

While figures from the BRC-Sensormatic index showed a rise in footfall compared to March 2025, this was due in part to Easter and the school holidays falling earlier this year, having landed a month later in April in 2025.

“With Easter and the school holidays falling earlier, retailers were expecting a stronger boost to footfall than March delivered… without an Easter uplift in April, momentum is far from guaranteed,” said Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium.

Shopping centres put on the strongest improvements in visitor numbers last month, rising +2.6% year-on-year for the five weeks between 01 Mar and 04 Apr 2026, followed by retail parks (+2.5%).

“March brought a welcome return to growth for UK retail footfall – the first positive month in nearly a year,” Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic, commented. “On the surface, this marks an encouraging shift in momentum, however, the improvement needs to be viewed in context.”

“Ongoing pressures continue to shape consumer behaviour. Declining confidence, geopolitical uncertainty and rising living costs – especially fuel – are still encouraging caution and fewer discretionary trips.”

According to Sumpter the “real test” will be if “footfall can hold once the Easter boost passes and tougher comparisons return.”