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Online retail sales have increased as spending on the internet rose compared to last year.

Figures from the IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index show online purchases have grown by 16 per cent on 2007.

James Roper, chief executive officer of IMRG, says that while a monthly increase was expected due to Christmas it is surprising that yearly growth has occurred.

Mike Petevinos, head of consulting for retail at Capgemini UK, adds: 'The current climate is causing consumers to turn to the internet to help them make more informed value decisions and purchases.'

The index also shows sales rose by 26 per cent compared to October, which is the largest month-on-month increase this year.

Figures show online sales for accessories jumped by the most, rising by 108 per cent compared to October.

Gift purchases rose by 85 per cent, beers, wines and spirits increased by 53 per cent and electrical online sales also jumped by 38 per cent.

A spokesperson for the British Chambers of Commerce says many retailers are currently reporting a bumper Christmas sales week.

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