Online shopping registers two-year high in growth figures

Total online sales were up 22 per cent in May compared with the same time last year – the highest growth since June 2008, according to the IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index.

Shoppers spent 4.5bn online during the month, equivalent to 73 for every person in the UK.

The index shows a three per cent increase in sales in May compared to April this year.

Preparations for the World Cup appear to have played their part, with alcohol sales up 23 per cent compared to last year and electrical goods up 13 per cent. Online clothing sales rose in May, up 32 per cent compared to last year, fuelled by sportswear buying and warmer temperatures.

Capgemini spokesman Chris Webster said: "Throughout the history of the index we have seen a noticeable rise in sales of certain goods whenever there is a major sports tournament on.

"This year's World Cup is no exception, with online retail as a whole growing by the highest level in two years and sectors such as clothing, alcohol and electricals rising especially rapidly. It's good to see that consumers' spirits haven't been dampened by concerns over Government spending cuts, and savvy retailers will have embraced the opportunity to draw in new customers."

IMRG spokeswoman Tina Spooner said: "With online sales growing at their highest rate in almost two years, this is good news for the e-retail industry."