While this was an improvement on June’s sharper 3.0% decline, the figures point to a challenging summer for retailers.

According to data from the Scottish Retail Consortium and Sensormatic Solutions, the picture varied across the country. Retail parks bucked the trend with a modest 0.4% increase in visitors, while shopping centres were almost flat, dipping by just 0.1%.

A clear divide emerged between Scotland’s two largest cities. Edinburgh, benefiting from an influx of international tourists, saw footfall grow by 0.6%. Glasgow, however, experienced a 1.5% decrease, closely mirroring the national average.

Ewan MacDonald-Russell, Deputy Head of the Scottish Retail Consortium, said: “Scottish retail footfall continues to disappointingly dip despite the sunny weather in July.

“Whilst the figures are an improvement on June’s poor figures there is little to celebrate as retailers have to try to increase sales in store despite fewer visitors.

“Edinburgh bucked the trend slightly with a positive return driven by international visitors to the capital, whilst Glasgow was pretty much in line with the national average. Retail parks and shopping centres were broadly flat showing both are still attractive options for consumers.”

Mr MacDonald-Russell continued: “A year after the general election and it’s hard to find evidence of much growth in the everyday economy.

“A new UK government promised to focus on the economy but it’s hard to find even green shoots of prosperity. With government-imposed costs skyrocketing and shoppers staying away it already looks like things will remain very tough for Scotland’s retailers this summer.”

Andy Sumpter, Retail Consultant EMEA for Sensormatic Solutions, said: “Total retail footfall remains stubbornly negative in Scotland at -1.3%. Retail parks were positive yet again, at +0.4%, perhaps yielding the benefits of greater occupancy and continued new openings.

“Shopping Centres saw a softer decline than last month at -0.1%. Events such as the Oasis tour in England in July did give local uplifts in foot-traffic, which now heads to Edinburgh for August, along with the Fringe.

“The early July heatwave may have lifted leisure footfall more than retail, while one year into a new Labour government, consumer sentiment remains cautious. The underlying footfall trend may be improving, but this is still negative growth on negative 2024 figures - raising the question: are shoppers returning, or simply shopping around more as they try to spend less? Either way, retailers who can offer value, experience, and convenience may be best placed to convert tentative footfall into lasting growth.”