Online Shopping Sales Jump

The severe winter weather last month, coupled with the impending VAT rise, lead many to turn to online shopping, causing a huge jump in online sales.

According to Capgemini SA and Interactive Media in Retail Group, internet sales surged 25% in December compared with the same time the previous year and increased 7% over November.

Sales of clothing, footwear and accessories were particularly strong, followed by alcohol.

Chris Webster, head of retail consulting and technology at Capgemini commented “The ongoing trend of consumers putting down the car keys and turning on their computers is only set to continue particularly as consumers use the power of the web to make their money go further as the economic recovery remains fragile.”

This jump in online shopping is supported by recent reports from high street retailers that their online sales were significantly up – M&S Direct sales were up 25% in the last quarter for example and John Lewis said their internet purchases rose some 42%.

IMRG and Capgemini are predicting a further 18% growth in 2011, resulting in £69bn online retail sales.

MoneyHighStreet.com comment: Clearly for many online shopping is far more convenient and easy. Latest information seems to confirm that the growth in online sales though at the expense of offline sales. Remember to ensure you take care and stay safe whilst doing your online shopping.