There is a shift in marketing opportunities for retailers as lockdown eases, according to data scientists at Ekimetrics.

They say analysing consumer behaviour post lockdown is key to businesses successfully rebounding from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Consumers have begun to travel, shop and spend more time outside as restrictions have been reduced. This has led to an 18% increase in footfall within major cities since 12 April 2021.

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The west of England had the biggest increases in footfall, with the biggest rise in footfall (42%) occurring in Bristol.

Additionally, mobility within the UK has increased. Driving within inner cities has increased by 10%, alongside increased public transport use.

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Matt Andrew, UK managing director and partner at Ekimetrics, said “Although 2021 will be a challenging year for many, there is a huge opportunity for businesses to harness data when planning to ensure they’re making smarter marketing decisions.

“With restrictions easing further from 17th May, those businesses that understand the dynamics of behaviour changes will be best placed to capitalise on which media and messaging will hit home at the best cost.”

Find out more on our coronavirus information hub for retailers