New research published in the press shows that only half of the UK’s shops have reopened since lockdown was eased in June, with many consumers showing a preference for staying in. Among the 20,351 restaurants, takeaway shops and travel agents allowed to reopen, only 52% did.

East Midlands has the lowest reopening rate at just 43%, with Greater London not far ahead at 44%. In fact, visits across the main shopping destinations in Oxford Street, Bond Street, Regent Street and Mayfair dropped by 73% since 15th June when compared to 2019.