According to the latest data from the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) and Sensormatic, overall shopper numbers dipped by 0.4% year-on-year. While this was a slight improvement on July’s 1.3% decline, the underlying trend remains a concern. The month began with widespread disruption from Storm Floris, which dampened visitor numbers across the country.

The national figure masked a varied performance across different locations. Edinburgh, buoyed by its summer festivals, saw footfall rise by a healthy 2.7%. In contrast, Glasgow experienced a 1.9% decrease, with the filming of a new Spider-Man movie failing to translate into more shoppers in stores.

Shopping centres recorded a modest 0.8% increase in visitors, while retail parks saw a notable 1.3% drop in footfall compared to last year.

David Lonsdale, director of the SRC, described the situation as a “mixed picture”. He noted that while the removal of peak rail fares by the First Minister may help entice shoppers, their ability to spend is being squeezed by higher council tax, water bills, and rising food prices. “As attention begins to turn to the all-important golden quarter, retailers will be looking at these figures somewhat nervously,” he said.

Andy Sumpter of Sensormatic Solutions added that the Scottish performance matched the UK average and called for bold action to reignite momentum. He warned that without investment and innovation, “flatlining” could become the new normal for the sector. “Growth is possible,” he commented, “but it demands boldness”.