In February, online sales in the UK increased by 69.5% year-on-year, and the footwear industry has great potential for development

It is reported that online retail sales in the UK increased by 69.5% year-on-year in February , which was slightly lower than the 74% increase in January , but still strong growth .

Online sales accounted for 53.7% of all retail spending in February. Sales at online general retailers (e.g., online marketplaces and catalogue stores) increased by 100%, while sales at online specialist retailers (including florists and jewellery stores) increased by 95.9% as Britons bought Valentine's Day gifts.

Spending on essential items increased by 5.3% year-on-year as many Brits continued to rely on takeaway food shopping, while supermarket spending increased by 17.4% overall and online grocery spending increased by 115.2%.

Spending on home improvements and DIY grew 10.3 per cent as almost a third (32 per cent) of consumers said they were looking to ‘spring clean’ and decorate their homes.

Another ongoing trend showed a 42.6% increase in spending on digital engagement .

According to the latest IMRG Capgemini Online Retail Index, which tracks the online sales performance of more than 200 retailers , all industries have achieved positive results, with the beauty industry leading the way with rapid growth in online sales. In addition, the electrical , home and garden industries are also very leading.

After a difficult 2020, apparel sales also continued their upward trend last month, increasing by 21.3%, and even footwear, the subcategory most affected by the pandemic, increased by 8 %.

In fact, footwear actually rose 46.7% in the week the UK reopened, as consumers looked to ditch their flip flops and get back outdoors.

Lucy Gibbs, managing consultant at Capgemini Retail Insight, said: “Growth online has been highest during the third national lockdown . But as we compare year-on-year changes in 2020, we are likely to see some interesting indicators over the coming months . ”

After reopening, people's consumption demand will gradually begin to grow, and previously suppressed demand will gradually begin to benefit. Products such as clothing are expected to perform strongly in 2021.

Lucy Gibbs said: “We are already starting to see a resurgence in this category, with the change of seasons and the lockdown easing roadmap already taking its first steps towards a strong uptick in sales across apparel and footwear this month.”

February

U.K.

on-line