Internet sales in Europe rose by 51% to 40.2bn euros in 2005

The research by Mintel also shows that the UK has become Europes largest online shopping market, overtaking Germany.

In value UK shoppers spent 9.79bn euros (£6.7bn; $12.2bn) online in 2005, compared with 9.71bn euros in Germany which was narrowly overtaken.

There remains scope for more growth as sales made over the internet only account for 2% of total European retail sales.  One of the driving forces behind the recent growth has been competition between internet providers which has lowered the cost of fast broadband services, making it much easier for consumers to shop online.