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Hammerson’s Retail Tracker, which monitors sales activity across its UK-wide portfolio of shopping centres, reported a 0.3% uptick in footfall, outperforming the national average of -1.6%. The wider retail picture is mixed, but with two noticeable bright spots.
Heath, fitness and well-being have driven the growth of athleisure clothing, sports and outdoor gear, which outperform all other fashion categories, and are up 7.5% in the past six months. The Olympics will likely inspire shoppers to keep buying through the summer.
Jewelry is also a standout performer as consumers have a particular hunger for engagement rings. Diamond rings, charm bracelets and watches are also popular choices.
