Online retailing emerged as the big winner over the 2010 Christmas period as many European markets saw shoppers increase their spending via the internet, bolstering retail sales growth in Europe, according to the latest analysis by CB Richard Ellis (CBRE).

Lower prices, better delivery options and growth in the number of retailers providing a transactional capability all contributed towards the significant increases in online sales, CBRE said.

Online retail sales have grown much faster than total retail sales across several European markets. The Netherlands saw the highest growth in festive online retail sales, increasing by 40% year-on-year throughout November and December 2010, followed by the UK where online retail sales grew by 25% year-on-year in December 2010, and then France with 24% growth year-on-year in December.

Peter Gold, head of Cross Border Retail - EMEA, commented: 'The huge increase in online sales reflects a continuing and fundamental shift in shopping patterns as more and more shoppers buy online to take advantage of better prices and convenience.

'There are still significant opportunities for international retailers to increase their internet sales across Europe, particularly in the emerging online markets of the CEE region. Retailers are recognising the importance of a strong online presence to support their overall growth strategy. Many retailers have embraced online shopping and now view it as a key to optimise their turnover potential.'