SHOP vacancy rates remained unchanged in April, according to latest figures from business information group The Local Data Company.
But the rate across the country remains at a record high – equating to 23,690 empty shop units in town centres alone, according to the LDC’s latest monthly barometer of shop vacancies.
Town centre vacancy rates in Great Britain stabilised at 14.3% during the second half of 2011, but rose to 14.5% in January, 2012, and edged up again to 14.6% in February, where it has remained.
Citing the demise of Clinton Cards, LDC director Matthew Hopkinson said the environment remained “extremely challenging” for retailers and consumers, adding: “The recent uncertainty in Europe has potential to create a big impact”.
