British consumers delivered a late festive boost to retailers, with a significant increase in last-minute Christmas Eve shopping recorded across the nation's high streets and retail parks.
Festive Footfall Sees Significant Surge
According to data from retail technology specialists MRI Software, overall shopper footfall up to 1pm on Wednesday 24 December 2025 was up by 2.4% compared to the same day a year earlier. This positive year-on-year figure was accompanied by an even sharper weekly increase, with footfall jumping 20.5% against the previous week, indicating a clear trend of shoppers leaving their festive purchases until the final moments.
Retail Parks Lead the Late Rush
The data revealed that the rise was particularly driven by a last-minute dash to retail parks. Footfall at these out-of-town destinations soared by 6.6% year-on-year and was a staggering 36.3% higher than the week before. High streets also saw an uplift, with a 1.1% increase compared to Christmas Eve 2024, while shopping centres reported a more modest 1% growth.
Jenni Matthews, a retail analyst at MRI Software, commented on the figures, telling the Press Association: “It has been a tough year for retailers after they first felt the impact of last year’s autumn budget, which led to increases in labour costs.” She added, “Many are now expecting higher business rates next year too. The footfall shows that people are still out and about, shopping in their towns and cities across the country.”
Regional Variations in Last-Minute Shopping
Regional analysis highlighted Wales as the standout performer, experiencing a 7.9% year-on-year surge in shopper traffic on Christmas Eve. The capital also attracted crowds, with London reporting a 2.6% increase in footfall as many ventured into the city centre to snap up final presents.
This late flurry of activity provided a welcome respite for shops operating against a challenging economic backdrop for consumers, demonstrating enduring high street traditions even in a difficult climate.
