Retailers fear Trump tariffs gloom will worsen footfall on UK high streets

Shoppers stayed away in March as footfall declined 5% and stores worry US trade war could have chilling effect

Shoppers stayed away from the UK high street in March, a situation retailers said could worsen if the economic gloom caused by Donald Trump's tariff war hits consumer confidence.

Footfall fell 5% in March to extend a downturn in February that retailers said could be attributed to a recent rise in inflation and pressure on pay packets since a brief revival during the January sales.