Lush's next IT project will focus on adding extra features to improve communication between the natural cosmetics firm's shops and the head office.

The plan to use voice over IP (VoIP) technology to cut the cost of internal calls will be fully operational by the last quarter of 2008 and will be preceded by an upgraded internal messaging service to be re-launched this summer.

"We are also looking into the possibility of using online timesheets at some point in 2009," said retail systems manager Chris Risbey.

Lush has recently completed the transition to internet credit control processing, which was set up shortly before Christmas. The new system provides Payment Card Industry compliance, ensuring the safety of customers' data for credit card payments made online or in a shop.

And the faster data transfer also helps reduce checkout queues and increase sales, said Risbey.

UK retail sales for the cosmetics firm grew five per cent year on year in December 2007. Internet sales doubled.