Retail footfall in October was weaker than in the past few months but still just higher than a year ago, in contrast to the year-on-year decline in the UK as a whole.
The new Westfield shopping centre is just outside this survey's central London area, but it did not open until 30th October, so had very little overall effect on October's central London sales.
The banking crisis and slump in the housing market depressed consumer confidence. Despite further discounting, homewares were especially hard hit and clothing and footwear were difficult. Food sales held up, though largely reflecting the effect of high food prices.
