Online sales return to double-digit growth in September

UK online retail sales returned to double-digit growth in September, following a weak August, according to the latest figures from the IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index.

The index reveals that online retail sales recorded a 12 percent increase on the same period last year. In addition, the index grew by 10 percent during the third quarter of 2015, and as the sector prepares itself for the busy Christmas period, the year-to-date growth also remains at 10 percent.

The September performance was boosted by the late summer bank holiday which fell within the first week of the month, helping the index grow by 8 percent on August. Although, IMRG Capgemini has stated the growth was still “slightly lower” than expected and that the Indian summer experienced in many parts of the country was likely to have been a contributing factor.

Parents updating back-to-school wardrobes helped the clothing sector record a 12 percent year-on-year growth, although that was on top of flat September growth in 2014.

Sales made via mobile devices also recorded an annual increase of 41 percent in September. In the year-to-date, it has climbed by 43 percent, compared to 46 percent 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.”