The latest technology neutral prediction from eMarketer estimates that the Internet will reach 70% of all UK residents by 2012, which compares with 2007s 60.5% (36.8 million). In addition the UK alone is expected to account for at least 40% of 2008s online sales in Western Europe!


It's expected that the UK’s hold on e-commerce will decline slightly as rival markets become better established, yet it will still represent the greatest single share of the European market in 2011.

Meanwhile the average spend per buyer has been rising steadily, with eMarketer estimating that the number will approach a healthy £2,000 in 2008 and £2,650 in 2011.