Online Shopping Gains Momentum Amidst Physical Store Concerns

  • Online retailing exceeded 20% of total retailing for the first time in November
  • Non-food store growth contributed to the increase in retail sales
  • Black Friday promotions boosted sales in November
  • Mintel predicts December retail sales will reach £47.7bn, up 4% from last year
  • Online sales expected to account for £11bn this December

For the first time, online retailing accounted for 21.5% of total retail sales in November, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). Non-food stores and Black Friday promotions contributed to this growth. Mintel predicts December’s retail sales will reach £47.7bn, a 4% increase from last year. Online sales are expected to account for £11bn in December, with non-food and food store online sales combined at £5.4bn. Despite concerns about the High Street, physical stores still dominate shopping.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the increase in retail sales, including specific percentages and figures from reputable sources such as the Office of National Statistics and Mintel. It also includes expert opinions on the subject matter.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the increase in retail sales and online sales during November 2018, as well as predictions for December’s sales. It also includes expert opinions from Richard Perks, director of retail research at Mintel. However, it could benefit from more analysis or context on the long-term trends and consequences of these changes in shopping habits.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Retail and e-commerce sectors
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the increase in retail sales, online sales, and predictions for December’s sales figures which can impact stock prices of retail companies and affect the overall market sentiment.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no mention of an extreme event in the last 48 hours.

Reported publicly: www.retailsector.co.uk