MRI OnLocation monthly commentary – January 2026

January 2026 saw a typical post-holiday footfall slump, compounded by a modest year-on-year decline driven largely by severe weather from Storm Goretti. While high streets and shopping centres struggled with the rain and snow, retail parks and office-heavy zones in Central London showed resilience, with shoppers becoming more deliberate by prioritizing weekend trips and essential spending. Ultimately, the data suggests a seasonal “reset” rather than a true retreat, highlighting a shift toward convenience-led and weather-dependent shopping habits.