Heatwave Causes 3% Shopping Increase

A 3% increase in footfall on Northern Ireland's high streets last month was partly caused by a heatwave, retailers have said.

Business owners took advantage of the hot weather and improved economic forecast by encouraging shoppers to buy seasonal food for the barbecue and summer fashion, according to the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRTC).

In July last year, heavy downpours were blamed by some retailers for disappointing footfall.

This year saw a marked difference, bringing Northern Ireland's reported footfall above the UK average.

This was an improvement on June's 5.9% decline and the first rise in figures since February.

Shop vacancy rates remained almost the same at 18%, well above the UK average.

Aodhan Connolly, director of the consortium, said: "It's a real relief to see that shopper numbers are on the up again after the previous month's steep drop.

"There are signs that retailers also read the weather and improving economic outlook well, encouraging more of us out to shop for seasonal food, fashion and other summer must-haves with broad ranges and targeted promotions."

Mr Connolly added: "The vacancy figures offer less cause for cheer - although marginally down on the previous quarter, Northern Ireland still retains the unenviable position of having the highest number of empty shops by quite a considerable margin.

"Over the coming months, we'll be working closely with government to explore ways to support investment and make a tangible and lasting difference to our town centres."

(IT/JP)