Retail footfall in the UK declined for the second consecutive year, dropping 2.2% in December 2024, as reported by the British Retail Consortium. Factors like cost of living challenges, online shopping competition, and poor weather are impacting sales. Shop owners, including Tom Rowley of Backstory Bookshop and Leanne Fridd of Bookbugs and Dragon Tales, are creatively trying to enhance customer experience with events like Santa’s grottos and wine offerings. Jenny Fazackerley’s business has engaged local events to boost foot traffic, highlighting ongoing challenges in the retail sector.