Sales via smartphones boosted online retail in the first quarter (Q1) of 2016 as online sales grew 15% compared with the same period last year.
The latest eRetail Sales Index from IMRG and Capgemini found online sales growth was up compared with the same period in 2015 – when growth stood at 8%.
The index also reported an increase in the average basket value (ABV) – from £77 in the first quarter of 2015 to £81 in the same period this year – following a general decline throughout 2015.
Retail sales via smartphones rocketed 101% compared with the same period last year, while online retail sales made via tablets increased by 6%. In Q1 overall, smartphone usage grew almost nine times that of tablets at 96%, compared with just 11% for tablets.
Richard Tremellen, retail insight and data specialist at Capgemini, said: “Double-digit growth for online sales in Q1 2016 is a hugely positive sign for the sector, and one which is further strengthened by an increase in the average amount spent online during the period.”
He added there appears to be a “sizeable shift” in consumers’ confidence in online shopping.
