Over the festive period, online shopping in the UK and France rose sharply, while e-commerce in Germany "lagged behind", new research indicates.According to figures produced by comScore, during the days between October 29th and December 23rd, internet shopping activity built steadily throughout the season in the UK and France, peaking in the sixth week (December 3rd to 9th).
During this time, the UK saw activity increase by 38 per cent over the base period (September 3rd to October 28th), while France saw an even greater rise of 45 per cent.
However, the online shopping season in Germany built more slowly, reaching a more modest high point of only 12 per cent above the base rate a week later than its two European counterparts.
According to comScore, the "slow season" in Germany appears to be the result of low consumer confidence, as well as the rail strikes that have caused disruption to the country in recent months.
"The online retail season seems to have built normally in the UK and France, while Germany lagged behind this Christmas," stated Bob Ivins, executive vice president of European markets for comScore.
He added: "The typical pattern we note in all countries, including the US, is that online retail activity peaks in mid-December as consumers have to allow time for shipping and delivery of their purchases in most categories."
Figures released earlier this month by comScore revealed that more than $29 billion was spent online by consumers over the festive period.
