Footfall across UK retail outlets experienced its first rise in over a year this September, according to new industry data, as consumers took advantage of pleasant weather conditions.

Figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Sensormatic show a 3.3% increase in footfall last month, a notable improvement following August's 0.4% decline. This marks the first year-on-year growth since July 2023.

Breaking down the figures, footfall on high streets saw a modest 0.9% rise, while retail parks surged by 7.3%, and shopping centres reported a 2.3% boost.

August had painted a less positive picture, with footfall down by 0.3% on high streets and 1.8% in shopping centres, though retail parks bucked the trend, seeing a 2.6% rise.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, attributed September’s growth to a combination of mild weather and weak performance during the same period last year.

"Retailers benefitted from optimal shopping conditions, with the temperature neither too hot nor too cold, encouraging more frequent trips to stores," Dickinson said. "In contrast, last year’s heatwave deterred many from heading out, delaying purchases of autumn essentials."

Andy Sumpter, retail consultant for Sensormatic, highlighted retail parks as key performers once again, crediting their mix of supermarkets and discount retailers for drawing in shoppers.

However, he noted the cautious optimism among retailers: "This growth is built on last year’s suppressed figures due to the heatwave, and while it’s encouraging, many are watching closely to see how it translates into actual sales."

With the critical pre-Christmas "golden quarter" approaching, many retailers will be hoping to maintain momentum. The BRC-Sensormatic footfall monitor tracks shopper numbers entering stores across the UK, providing a key measure of retail activity.