UK spending online highest in Europe
UK beats Germany as Europe's top shoppers
UK online spending has soared to almost €10bn (£6.7bn), making it the largest online shopping market in Europe, according to a report from research firm Mintel.
UK shoppers spent €9.79bn in 2005 to overtake Germany (€9.71bn) as the biggest spenders online as total spending across Europe topped €40.2bn (£27.5bn).
Total internet sales across Europe rose by 51 per cent on the previous year and Mintel expects that figure to triple by 2010. It said there was plenty of room for growth as online sales still represent just two per cent of total retail sales.
The report said online sales are expected to grow strongly as the channel matures, with competition between internet providers lowering the cost of fast broadband and making it easier for consumers to shop online.
Companies should also benefit as online security becomes tighter and consumers become more comfortable shopping over the internet.
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Further reading
European online retail hits €100bn and set to rise