Online retail sales are projected to reach $26.2 billion during the fourth quarter, up 21.9% over last year, according to market research firm EMarketer.
“We expect to see strong sales gains this year, driven largely by shoppers shifting their purchases online,” said Jeffrey Grau, senior analyst in a statement. “Several factors are behind this growth: a longer shopping season on the Internet; improved order fulfillment and intense competition among online retailers, which leads to aggressive promotions–all benefiting the deal-seeking consumer.”
Grau made these assertions despite high oil prices, consumer debt levels, declining consumer confidence and the uncertain long-term impact of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
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