Getty Images Footfall in London's West End reached its highest level since 2020 over the 2025 festive season, new figures show. The Heart of London Business Alliance (HOLBA) said visitor numbers in December were up 19% on the same month in 2024 across its central London district. The area, which includes Piccadilly, Leicester Square and Haymarket, also recorded longer visits, with people staying an average of 42 minutes more than in December 2024.
"Affordability" has become business's favorite new buzzword - and for good reason. US inflation remains high, alongside pricing on everyday household expenses. As a result, countless studies show that it's top of mind for the vast majority of people - driving decision-making across demographics. In the fast casual space in particular, affordability has been cited as a factor in ongoing slumps, but across the quick-service landscape, a clear strategy is taking shape.