Online retail sales in the U.K. grew 14% from April 2008 to April 2009, reports an index of e-retail sales by trade association the Interactive Media in Retail Group and technology and consulting company Capgemini.
Just as in the U.S., the 12-month growth was a record low. Contrasted to the U.S., however, the record was at least growth. U.S. online sales have been flat for the first five months of this year after experiencing contraction at the end of last year.
The index reports that online apparel sales were up 30% last year.
The IMRG Capgemini Index also reports that since the index launched in April 2000, it has recorded 5,000% growth in online sales. During the same period, offline sales have grown 21%, the two groups report.
U.K. consumers spent £43.8 billion (US $61.7 billion) online last year, IMRG and Capgemini report.
“Internet shopping is clearly the bright spot in the U.K. retail sector but this industry is still young and has great potential for further growth,” says Tina Spooner, director of information at IMRG.
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