The Local Data Company (LDC) has partnered with UCL and the Consumer Data Research Centre (CDRC) to develop the The SmartStreetSensor Project, a platform for the analysis and interpretation of a live feed of footfall data in over 1000 locations, focused on high streets, with shopping centres and retail parks to follow.
The SmartStreetSensor Project will see the roll-out of over 1000 footfall sensors in 81 towns and cities across Great Britain.
The sensor tracks WiFi-enabled devices passing a location as a proxy for people. The sensors have been extensively tested and the data is already being used by several retailers.
"We want to leverage our detailed knowledge of high streets and how they are changing and combine this with unique footfall insights," says the LDC. "We also have a technology team who is able to transpose and analyse the data into meaningful insights that occupiers, local authorities, landlords and investors can use to help inform their decision making.
"It is no secret that our high streets are changing and the way consumers choose to shop has witnessed a drastic revolution in recent years. LDC data shows that in 2015 multiple retail and leisure occupiers closed a total of 1043 high street stores. In contrast, 593 independent retailers opened in high street locations. What does this mean? Is footfall really in decline or is it simply that the customer journey has changed? How is ‘pitch’ evolving across these towns and cities? Do high street coffee shop brands really increase footfall? How do vacant units impact footfall? Which high street types are suffering the most, or the least?"
