Tourists look set to deliver bumper Boxing Day in West End
LONDON – 27 December 2023 - The West End rounded off the festive shopping season with a successful Boxing Day that footfall up 5% on 2022 levels. The district has been buoyant across December, with West End footfall growing by 20% compared with November and by 6% compared to December last year.
International shoppers have become the driving force of the growth this year, having first overtaken domestic spending over the Black Friday weekend. With a notable uplift in footfall on 26 December, particularly on Bond Street (+20% year-on-year), it looks likely that overseas shoppers will also deliver a bumper Boxing Day, as they look to make the most of their West End experience. Early reports from retailers suggest a strong festive trading period overall, largely driven by growth in sales to international customers and an uplift in average transaction values.
Dee Corsi, Chief Executive of New West End Company, commented: “The vibrancy of the district at Christmas-time is a reflection of the West End’s reputation as a world-class retail and leisure destination. More than just shopping, many flock here to enjoy all that the area has to offer across the festive season – little wonder then that we have had a busy December, rounded off with a bumper Boxing Day to set the West End up for a positive start to 2024.
“However, we cannot afford to ignore that it is international visitors driving our recovery this winter, particularly on Boxing Day. The cost-of-living crisis is squeezing domestic spending and dampening consumer confidence. It is imperative that the Government heeds calls for an independent review of tax-free shopping to put us back on a level playing field with Continental Europe.”
ENDS
Press Office
Good Relations