The retail industry has seen substantial shifts in foot traffic, with a global decline of 62.5% in 2020. Notably, retail traffic experienced an additional drop of 8.1% in March 2023 compared to March 2019.
To help understand these changes in consumer behavior, let me share the most crucial retail foot traffic statistics you should be aware of right away. 🛍️📉👣
Retail Foot Traffic Statistics: The Key Data
- Retail traffic dropped 8.1% in March 2023 compared to March 2019.
- Global retail foot traffic fell by 62.5% in 2020.
- The most foot traffic increased at arts and craft supply stores (40%), department stores (34%), outlet malls (32%), and shopping centers (31%).
- Walmart, McDonald’s, and Subway have the most daily foot traffic in the U.S.
- Retail foot traffic was 3.9% higher during the week of November 7, 2021, compared to the same week in 2019.
- In Q1 2023, shopping visits rose 20% from the previous year.
- Walmart foot traffic rose 22.2%, year-over-year.
Sources: (Globest, Retail Customer Experience, Retaildive, Geekwire, Resonai, Gravy Analytics.)
Table of Contents
Retail Traffic Sees 8.1% Dip in March 2023 from March 2019 Levels.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Significant decline in retail footfall | A drop of 8.1% in a four-year span indicates a notable shift in consumer behavior. |
| Possible influence of external factors | Such a decline over several years might suggest effects of economic, technological, or societal changes on retail habits. |
| Need for retailers to reassess strategies | Persistent downward trends suggest that retailers might need to pivot to new methods or adapt to changing consumer demands. |
Source: Globest
Shopping Visits Surge 20% Year-on-Year in Q1 2023.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Resurgence in shopping activity | A 20% increase year-over-year signals a strong rebound in shopping visits. |
| Economic or consumer confidence boost | Such a significant uptick may indicate heightened economic activity or increased consumer trust. |
| Opportunity for retailers to capitalize | With more consumers returning to shops, there’s potential for retailers to maximize sales and engagement. |
Source: Retail Customer Experience
Global Retail Foot Traffic Plummets by a Massive 62.5% in 2020.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Unprecedented decline in retail footfall | A staggering 62.5% decrease showcases an unparalleled shift in global retail dynamics. |
| Impact of external crisis or events evident | Such a dramatic drop is likely influenced by significant global events or crises. |
| Imperative for businesses to adapt swiftly | Retailers must innovate and possibly transition to digital platforms to remain relevant. |
Source: Retaildive
Arts & Craft Stores Lead Foot Traffic Rise: 40%, Followed by Department Stores at 34%.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Arts and craft stores lead the resurgence | A 40% surge indicates a pronounced consumer interest in creative and DIY activities. |
| Department stores remain crucial retail hubs | Their 34% increase suggests enduring consumer reliance on diverse product offerings. |
| Outlet malls and shopping centers are rebounding | Increases of 32% and 31% respectively show that value and variety shopping experiences are still in demand. |
Source: Retail Customer Experience
US Daily Foot Traffic Dominated by Walmart, McDonald’s, and Subway.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Walmart dominates daily retail visits | Its position implies unmatched retail leadership and consumer trust in its offerings. |
| McDonald’s underscores fast-food primacy | As a leader in the fast-food industry, its foot traffic exemplifies consumer preference for quick and familiar meals. |
| Subway’s presence highlights sandwich appeal | The brand’s high foot traffic underscores the U.S. consumers’ appetite for sandwich-centric quick-service options. |
Source: Geekwire
Week of November 7, 2021: Retail Traffic Up 3.9% from 2019 Levels.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Notable rebound in retail footfall | An increase of 3.9% signifies a meaningful recovery and potential surpassing of pre-pandemic levels. |
| Consumer confidence may be on the rise | The uplift, compared to 2019, suggests a possible resurgence in economic and consumer optimism. |
| Impetus for retailers to seize market potential | The upward trend indicates an opportune moment for businesses to cater to and capitalize on renewed consumer interest. |
Source: Resonai
Walmart Registers Impressive 22.2% YoY Rise in Foot Traffic.
Important takeaway:
| Insight from Data | Rationale |
| Significant resurgence in Walmart’s patronage | A 22.2% increase indicates a strong return of consumers to Walmart’s retail spaces. |
| Reflective of Walmart’s enduring market dominance | The marked increase suggests Walmart’s continued ability to attract and retain shoppers amidst varying market conditions. |
| Opportunity for further strategic growth and outreach | The robust growth presents an advantageous position for Walmart to amplify its offerings and further solidify its market presence. |
Source: Gravy Analytics
