Data Suggests Buying Ink Cartridges Online Part Of Rise In UK Spending

Brits who purchased printer ink cartridges on the web contributed to a significant rise in UK online spending in 2010, new data shows. In fact, the UK led the way for European ecommerce spending, figures from comparison website Kelkoo.co.uk show.

Toner cartridges purchasers helped the UK spend more than any other European country shopping online – accounting for 30 per cent of total sales last year. Online retailing is now one of the fastest growing markets in the UK, jumping from a value of £14 billion in 2003 to £44 billion last year – a rise of 214 per cent.

On average, UK web-savvy shoppers spent an average of £1,284 each and purchased 41 items, more than the European average of £908 on 25 items. 

Richard Stables, the chief executive officer of Kelkoo, said: "Over the last five years internet retailing has improved substantially thanks to the use of affordable 'always-on' internet connections, simple and secure payment systems, and the growth of mobile-based retail sites.

"All of these factors helped to attract an additional 5 million new online shoppers across Europe last year, and should help online retail sales to continue to thrive."

Posted by Jamie Foster.