Register to get 1 more free article
Reveal the article below by registering for our email newsletter.
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Online retail sales in the UK returned to double-digit growth in September following a weak August, according to new figures released today.
That is according to the latest IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index which found online retail sales in the UK were up 12% in September when compared with the same month last year.
The index grew 10% during the third quarter of 2015, and as the retail industry prepares itself for the busy Christmas period, the year-to-date growth also remains at 10%.
The index said that the performance in September was boosted by the late Summer bank holiday which fell within the first week of the month, helping the index grow 8% on August, although it mentioned that growth was still slightly lower than expected.
Sales made via mobile devices, either a smartphone or tablet, saw an annual increase of 41% in September. Year-to-date, it has grown 43% in 2015, compared to 46% at the same point in 2014.
Alex Smith-Bingham, head of digital, consumer products and retail at Capgemini, said: “Whilst it’s reassuring to see the index return to double digit growth, it’s not as strong as the sector would have liked.
“With the Rugby World Cup, the warm weather and the late Bank Holiday, retailers could be forgiven for expecting a better performance in September. As we approach the busy Christmas period, and with Black Friday just a few weeks away, it will be interesting to see whether British shoppers have intentionally held back for the heavy discounting the festive season brings.”
