Footfall in London's West End was up 9% in the week before Black Friday, according to data from the New West End Company. Across Black Friday week, it was up 4.1%, and the following week it increased by 6.2%. The weekend of December 6 and 7 was also busy due to the pedestrianisation of Regent Street and live performances on Oxford Street, with the New West End Company describing the period as showing "real momentum".

This trend contradicts the national picture, where the Office of National Statistics reported that retail sales fell unexpectedly in November. Black Friday, which originated in the United States, has become one of the biggest shopping days of the year in the UK, marking the unofficial start to the Christmas shopping season.

The New West End Company's data suggests that Londoners are bucking the national trend, with many choosing to shop in the West End rather than online or in other parts of the country. "This weekend we are still expecting one of our biggest weekends when people who have left it maybe to the last minute come in to buy presents," said a spokesperson for the company.

The pedestrianisation of Regent Street and live performances on Oxford Street appear to have played a significant role in attracting shoppers to the area. "The atmosphere on Oxford Street was electric, with thousands of people enjoying the live music and entertainment," said a spokesperson for the Oxford Street Association. "It's clear that the combination of great shopping, entertainment, and a festive atmosphere is a winning formula for attracting visitors to the area."

The trend in the West End is also being driven by the desire for a more personal and immersive shopping experience. "Many people are looking for a more human experience when it comes to shopping, and the West End offers a unique and memorable experience that can't be replicated online," said a spokesperson for a local retailer.

As the Christmas shopping season enters its final stretch, it remains to be seen whether the trend in the West End will continue. However, with many retailers offering extended hours and special deals, it's likely that the area will remain a popular destination for shoppers in the coming weeks.