MRI Forecasts Impact Of Planned Tube And Rail Strikes

MRI Software, a leading provider of retail and property technology solutions has been tracking the impact of tube and rail strikes on footfall across Central London and has compiled a forecast ahead of the upcoming London tube strikes (1st - 16th of November).

Jenni Matthews, Marketing & Insights Director at MRI Software, said:

As another wave of tube strikes sets to disrupt travel in and around the UK’s capital from 1st to 16th November, organisations, retailers, and leisure/hospitality operators, and businesses reliant on footfall to drive revenue should prepare – in terms of staffing and operations - for the potential impact on commuter footfall. Many workers may choose to work from home during this period to avoid facing unnecessary disruption, and event organisers within London should consider contingency plans for delegates facing travel difficulties.

In addition to strike action, this period will also see ASLEF and RMT Union members take part in overtime bans, adding further strain on London’s transport network.

MRI Software’s footfall data has previously identified that a drop in footfall on previous strike days can be anywhere between 8% and 20% however this is a culmination of overground rail and tube strike action. Looking at the tube strike alone, we would anticipate this drop in footfall to be much smaller and anywhere between 1%-5% week on week especially as overground rail services and the Elizabeth line are still expected to operate as usual. London’s buses and cabs are also expected to run normally which will further mitigate the severity of the tube strikes taking place as commuters within the city will still have alternative options in accessing high streets and other locations within London.

Source : MRI Software

Image : minoandriani / iStock / 1096943568

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