The IMRG retail index which measures the e-retail growth has increased by 18% in the first quarter, compared with the same period last year. It was the strongest first quarter performance since 2008. The online retail rose by 14% in March, which makes a total of £5.1bn.

The IMRG’s recent online confidence survey has revealed that more than 70% of UK retailers expect online sales to remain high for the rest of the year. Director at IMRG, Tina Spooner said that online retailers have every reason to remain at a high.

The online payment provider, PayPoint.net has also identified the rising trends in its data. The data has also shown a 38% increase in online spending by the consumers. The latest figures of from ecommerce trade body the IMRG has revealed that the shoppers of UK have spent more than £5bn online in March.

Ms. Spooner confirmed that online retail continues to be the encouragement for the UK retail market during the tough economic conditions. The main rise in the sale came from health and beauty sector, which was up by 20% from February and 32% as compared to last year.