Online Sales Increase to $211 Billion in 2006

According to Forrester Research and Shop.org's annual State of Retailing Online study, online sales are expected to rise 20% in 2006. Some interesting findings from the report:

Computer hardware and software, cars, and apparel, accessories and
footwear are expected to be the largest nontravel categories driving
the increase, with anticipated sales of $16.8 billion, $15.9 billion
and $13.8 billion, respectively.

But sales of pet supplies, cosmetics and fragrances will increase faster than other categories at growth rates of more than 30 percent, the report found.

Gift cards and loyalty programs were big contributors to increased sales. The report also cited the benefits for online and offline integration. Read the full story at CNET News.com.

Tags: online sales, forrester research, ecommerce 2006, shop.org, retailing online