MRI’s latest Footfall Monitor shows Scotland’s high streets rebounding in February, with footfall rising +9.4% month on month following January’s post-festive slowdown. Covering the four-week period from 1–28 February 2026, the data reflects a strong recovery in activity, supported by seasonal events and improved consumer engagement.
However, year-on-year performance remains subdued, with footfall down -8.8% compared with February 2025, as challenging weather conditions weighed on early-month momentum. As seen in recent months, a clear divide persists between weekday and weekend activity. Weekday footfall declined -4.3% year on year, while weekends proved more resilient at -1.9%, reinforcing the continued impact of hybrid working patterns and the growing importance of weekend-led retail.
Weather sensitivity remained a key factor. Heavy rainfall in the first week of February contributed to a -5.6% week-on-week drop in high street footfall, while retail parks saw a modest uplift, reflecting ongoing consumer preference for convenient, accessible destinations during poor conditions.
Seasonal events once again played a significant role in driving engagement. In the lead-up to February half-term, footfall rose +11.7% week on week, with activity peaking on Valentine’s Day, which delivered a +20.1% uplift week on week and a +13.7% increase year on year. Although activity softened as schools returned, a strong rebound on the final Saturday of the month—aligned with payday weekend, highlighted the continued importance of occasion-led spending.
Looking ahead, attention turns to key retail moments including Mother’s Day in March and Easter in April, both expected to drive increased footfall. However, retailers face a more complex backdrop, with geopolitical uncertainty and rising energy costs potentially impacting consumer confidence. As a result, footfall patterns are becoming more concentrated around weekends, holidays and meaningful shopping occasions.
Read the full February report here.
