News

eRetail going for gold in 2012

Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG) this week released figures showing 2011 to be a record-breaking year for UK eRetail. The figures speak for themselves:

• £7.9bn spent online during December; a record index score with 16.5% year-on-year growth, equivalent to £155 per person.
• £68bn spent online in 2011; 16% increase on the previous year.
• Forecast for 2012: 13% growth and approximately £77bn in total eRetail sales.

Yes we've been spared the havoc-wreaking snow, and true there were no major credit card security scares this time around, but 2011's success is down to more than luck. There has been some serious innovation in the marketplace to deliver a consistent and co-ordinated retail experience wherever consumers demand it.

Chris Webster, Head of Retail Consultancy and Technology at Capgemini commented: "Strong online sales over Christmas were even more impressive since they built on a 25% year-on-year growth from 2009 to 2010. During 2011 we saw continued pressure on sales as shoppers became savvier in looking for bargains and this continued in the run up to Christmas. The rapid rise of mobile in 2011 will continue into 2012 as consumers became familiar with shopping via tablet devices and smartphones, some taking advantage of their recent Christmas presents. This changing landscape will open up a myriad of opportunity for retailers including integration of stores into the multi-channel world and the potential of new capabilities like location based marketing services."

Shoppers expectations are higher than they've ever been, so the spoils have gone to those retailers who have invested in getting their online, mobile and tablet strategies spot on. As it stands, our Europe-leading eCommerce market represents 17% of total UK retail sales. Given the prevailing wind we see no reason why, in this our Olympic year, it won't put in a medal-winning performance in 2012.