UK footfall increased 1.6% year-on-year in April 2010 in comparison to the same month last year, according to The Experian Retail Footfall Index.
The Retail Park Index also showed a positive year-on-year growth of 1.7%.

A statement from Experian said: "April this year has been much drier and sunny skies encouraged consumers to shop for home & garden requirements and may have also kick started the start of the BBQ season as we saw the Retail Park Index also show a positive year-on-year growth of 1.7%. Looking ahead however, continued sunshine in May will hopefully inspire shoppers to the high street and retail parks as retailers will now be looking to promote their new summer ranges, as well as outdoor leisure items such as barbecues, DIY and gardening accessories.

"With the overall outlook of consumers towards shopping being positive for 2010 so far, it will be interesting to see how the General Election impacts on consumers' shopping behaviour going forwards; recent figures in April have already shown inflation and unemployment continue to rise, consequently consumer confidence may be undermined by worries about personal finances."

Despite snow in February impacting the start of the spring season, the past three months have witnessed a succession of positive year-on-year growths, the first in two years, said Experian. While this may indicate signs of consumer confidence stabilising, retailers should remain cautious, said the company, as tough trading conditions still persist, and, depending on the policies of the new Government, there may be times ahead which impact on the confidence and feeling of well-being for many.