Bargain-hunt consumers push online sales up 19 per cent

Online shopping sales are up 19 per cent on January last year despite the recession, new figures show.

However, they reveal a nation in detox, with alcohol sales down 62 per cent since December.

Clothing, footwear and accessories were up 32 per cent as retailers slashed prices online in the January sales.

Experts say the figures show that the recession has driven many shoppers online to find the lowest prices.

Tina Spooner of Interactive Media in Retail Group, which represents online retailers, said: "During these challenging economic times it is clear from the latest Index results that consumers are continuing to use the internet to their advantage.

"This is especially apparent when it comes to searching out the best available deals and promotions.

"Recent research shows that online searches for discounts have soared by over 100per cent, a clear indication of how consumers are becoming more price sensitive."

The figures also show sales of electronic goods - such as TVs, DVD players and game consoles - have risen indicating a surge in the number of people who are spending more time at home to save money.

Mike Petevinos, head of consulting for retail at Capgemini UK, said: "Our January results show that consumers are increasingly seeing online as the place to shop in the current environment, with year-on-year growth of nearly 20 per cent for the month.

"Key drivers of this growth have been the electrical and clothing segments, reflecting the post-Christmas sales effect on consumer spending."