Further rise in footfall seen as restrictions ease and indoor hospitality returns

London footfall has recovered most compared to other major cities.

Footfall is up by a further 4% following the opening of indoor trading from 17 to 23 May, according to new data from Wireless Social.

Over the said week, nationwide hospitality footfall recovered by 39% of levels seen in February 2020. 

Despite experiencing a less significant increase from the period of 17 to 23 May, London has recovered most overall, compared with other major cities, with footfall at 44% of pre-COVID levels.

In contrast, Glasgow, with its hospitality venues still closed, experienced a 5% drop compared to the week prior. Currently, its footfall is at 25% of pre-COVID levels.

Wireless Social says the data demonstrates consumers’ enthusiasm to return to the on-trade, with footfall remaining consistent each day throughout the week. 

Lunch trading is the most popular time of day, with 40% of the overall footfall, with dinner and breakfast seeing 30% each. Men continue to make up the majority of guests at a total of 55% compared to 42% for women. Additionally, younger age groups make up 38% of visitors. 

Julian Ross, CEO and founder of Wireless Social, said: “The fact that nationwide footfall in the sector is still below 40% of our pre-covid average shows that despite images of full restaurants and pubs in the papers, there is still a long road to recovery. It’s vitally important that all restrictions are dropped on 21st June, so we can see the sector flourish and operate freely and in viable conditions.”