Food and grocery is set to become the most valuable online retail sector in the UK, according to a report out today (3 June).

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


Electrical items remain the most popular on purchase but food is set to take the top spot by 2012, retail analyst Verdict Research has forecast.


Food and electricals accounted for almost half of online sales in the UK last year but Verdict predicts that grocery sales will represent 29% of the market in four years’ time. Electrical items will account for 22% of sales in 2012, Verdict said.


The researchers said online shopping was becoming an “integral” part of the UK retail landscape. Last year, sales jumped 35% to GBP14bn and Verdict said that “strong growth” is set to continue.


Convenience and price will be two factors behind the growth of the online channel, Malcolm Pinkerton, senior retail analyst at Verdict, said.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“The internet is widely perceived as a cheaper and easier way of finding lower prices and bargains in most sectors,” Pinkerton said. “As the cost of broadband falls, consumers become accustomed to internet shopping and retailers continue to enhance their online propositions, the channel will find itself extremely well-placed to capitalise on the falling consumer confidence and lower levels of disposable income currently impacting the retail market.”