Empty shop numbers ‘set to rise in 2012’
According to this article a report by the Local Data Company has identified that empty shop numbers are due to rise. The article tells us:
“The report said that although the share of shopping taken by out-of-town shopping centres had risen to 31.5% in 2011 from 28.1% in 2000, the main cause for the decline of High Street shops was online shopping. LDC quote research from retail consultancy Verdict which shows that online sales doubled from 5.1% in 2000 to 10.2% in 2011.
“Technology is driving consumer behaviour to a world of engagement, entertainment and the ability to shop where, how and when we like,” said Mr Hopkinson. “Town centres need to adapt to this changing environment if they are to survive and thrive.”
This issue is really interesting in raising a fascinating facet of the downside of the impact of the internet on rural communities. In most cases we argue better internet connectivity can make rural places more sustainable. I wonder if one unintended consequence of increasing connectivity might be the loss of local shopping and the consumption of local facilities – when people have the option to easily ditch their rural service centres through enhanced connectivity and shop online like everyone else! Feels wrong somehow to be saying this but it is an interesting thought – what do you think?
I am sure there is scope to grow the potential of niche and interesting rural retail and small town operations when they increase their own virtual footfall via internet strategies. Is there enough support to enable them to do this?