Mexico City, September 14 – A recent study by Getin, a Mexican retail analytics platform, has revealed that retail sales in Mexico City increased by 6.2% on rainy days compared to expected performance between January and July 2026. The analysis, which covered 39 commercial spaces across the city, suggests that consumer spending does not disappear with rain but rather shifts to better-prepared retail formats.
Mobility Hubs and Enclosed Malls See Significant Gains
Anabell Trejo, CEO and co-founder of Getin, highlighted that mobility hubs, such as airports and Modal Transfer Centers (Cetram – terminals where various public transport systems converge), recorded the most substantial increase in sales, with an 8.4% rise. Enclosed shopping centers also experienced a positive trend, seeing a 4.2% increase in foot traffic and a 6.4% boost in sales.
Street-Level Commerce Faces Challenges
In contrast, street-level commerce was the only format to register a decline, with a 0.9% drop in sales. This occurred despite an increase in its conversion rate to 1.8%. Trejo explained that while customers who visited street-level stores were more likely to make a purchase, the overall reduction in pedestrian traffic ultimately impacted total sales.
June Marked a Clear Divergence in Performance
Monthly analysis showed that June presented the most significant divergence between retail formats. Enclosed shopping centers achieved their second-best results of the year, with sales 13% above expectations. Conversely, street-level commerce experienced its worst performance during this period, with sales falling by 22%. In July, this trend moderated, and street-level businesses recovered, seeing an 11.6% increase.
Rainy Season Expected to Extend
According to information from the National Water Commission, the 2026 rainy season in Mexico City could extend until November. This projection suggests that the observed retail trends on rainy days might continue, further emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt to changing weather patterns.
Adapting to Weather-Driven Consumer Behavior
The findings underscore the importance for retailers to understand and adapt to consumer behavior influenced by weather conditions. Businesses located in mobility hubs and enclosed shopping centers appear to be better positioned to capitalize on rainy days, as consumers seek more sheltered environments for their shopping needs. For street-level businesses, strategies to attract customers despite adverse weather, such as targeted promotions or improved indoor experiences, could be crucial for mitigating potential losses.
Implications for Retail Strategy and Urban Planning
This study provides valuable insights for both retailers and urban planners in Mexico City. Retailers can leverage this data to optimize staffing, inventory, and marketing efforts based on weather forecasts. Urban planners might consider the impact of weather on commercial activity when designing and developing new retail spaces, particularly in relation to public transportation hubs and covered areas.
The shift in consumer patterns on rainy days highlights a dynamic retail landscape where convenience and accessibility play a significant role. As Mexico City continues to experience its rainy season, the ability of businesses to strategically respond to these weather-driven changes will be key to their success.
Source: https://mx.fashionnetwork.com/news/Las-ventas-retail-suben-al-6-2-en-dias-de-lluvia-en-la-ciudad-de-mexico,1866270.html
