Christmas set to smash all e-tail records

UK e-tailers can expect to enjoy the most successful Christmas ever online, if statistics out for November are anything to go by.

According to figures released on Friday by the Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG), more than £1bn was spent by UK online shoppers during November alone, and this figure can only increase as Christmas sees the virtual tills ringing up even more sales.

A total of 14.3 million UK shoppers spent £1bn at ecommerce sites in November - the most ever spent online in one month in the UK.

This is an increase of over 10 per cent on October's figures - and 95 per cent up on a year ago. The IMRG also reported that online shopping is growing three times faster in the UK as it is in the US.

IMRG has identified extra convenience, choice, and time savings as key reasons for this growth in online commerce, as well as improved security and better consumer rights than on the high street.

Owen Stewart, senior commercial manager at IMRG, said: "Internet shopping is very safe for consumers, both because of protection built into the payments systems and because their return rights are better than in the high street.

"It's also much more convenient in many circumstances. You can do a grocery shop in half an hour instead of half a day, and it's great for Christmas gifts, because the retailer will wrap and deliver your presents for you."

Broadband is another key factor in the growth in online shopping.

IMRG chief executive James Roper said: "Broadband's rapid take-up is already having a profound impact on online shopping, setting exciting new expectations for consumers. Its fast connectivity enables consumers to nip to the stores online and enjoy a hassle-free, rich online shopping experience."

December is likely to be an even more successful month than November, with some experts predicting that the UK's online shopping bill for the month could total £1.7bn.