Are we turning a retail corner?
In the last 18 months we have got used to “I think you’re on mute” and “Can you hear me?” Many of us have enjoyed the novelty of wearing comfy clothes and slippers all day. It’s been great to have time to walk the dogs at lunchtime (or feed the birds). But is this sustainable long term?
Really good creative and problem-solving ideas flow from “corridor moments” and pre-meeting conversations. I think we need to spend more time in the real work-world and there is data telling me I’m not alone in my machinations.
I have been reading reports that contain lots of stats about current working patterns and future projections. Over 90% of us want to return to the office albeit perhaps not on a full-time basis. Couple this with other data suggesting that the rate of retail outlet closure has slowed down since this time last year and we have potentially good news at the end of the tunnel!
For me one the most exciting stats is that in London’s West End footfall rose 12% in August. The other is that between January and June 2021 almost 3.5K retailers opened on our high street. It seems as though we could be turning a retail corner.
With the Furlough Scheme coming to an end, let’s get back to the office more and start the ideas flowing again. And while we’re there, pop out at lunch time, grab something to eat and do some shopping … maybe some new shoes – without a furry lining!
So, if you want to increase the number of the 3.5K new retailers, give Dymond Engineering a call. We can help you with your bespoke shop fittings to make sure that you maximise all your new footfall.
