The growth in online sales in September was at its strongest in 13 years as consumers increasingly use mobile devices to shop, according to new figures.
The online retail market recorded a rise of 13% between August and September, the steepest monthly increase for this period in the 13-year history of the IMRG Capgemini e-retail sales index.
The index was up 20% year-on-year in September, ahead of expectation and driven by the increasing use of mobile devices, according to the report.
And in further positive news in the run-up to Christmas, the average online shopping basket value reached its highest point since June last year.
Almost a quarter of mobile device sales (23%) were through smartphones in September.
The clothing sector recorded an 18% rise compared to this time last year – a three-year high – while other sectors showing strong growth included lingerie (30%), accessories (20%) and footwear (20%).
Capgemini vice president Chris Webster said: “This month’s index is a good indicator that we are headed towards economic recovery, and a great sign for a strong Christmas.
“The fact that e-retail has seen its sharpest period of growth for September suggests that consumers are shopping with confidence. In addition, September’s three-year high in the average clothing basket value is a clear sign that retailers are selling through at full price, giving even more confidence to the economic recovery.”
IMRG chief information officer Tina Spooner said: “The latest index results are encouraging as we enter the fourth quarter, with retailers preparing for the crucial festive trading period.
“The record monthly growth in September is an indication of increasing consumer confidence and with smartphone year-on-year sales growth reaching an impressive 150%, it is also evident that shoppers are becoming more comfortable with shopping via their mobile devices.
“Year-to-date, the UK e-retail sector has grown 16% compared with the same period in 2012 and we anticipate the sector will continue to record double-digit growth during Q4.”
Online retail sales up 13% in month
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