Online trading survey

While consumer confidence is gradually improving, overall levels are still too low for the market to reach its full potential. Even for those who do shop using the internet, which were roughly half the people interviewed, 72 per cent say they still have concerns over doing so and 38 per cent are at best only slightly aware of their online consumer rights.

The 2009 figures indicate that despite concerns, there have been some positive changes. Among the people who do shop online 54 per cent feel it is as safe as shopping in store compared to 26 per cent in 2006.

John Fingleton, OFT Chief Executive, said, 'Online retailing is the future for many businesses and increasingly important to the economy. If consumers are not confident online, demand will grow at a slower rate. So, we must tackle these concerns right now if the online market is to grow at its full potential. The OFT looks forward to building on its previous work with both consumers and businesses to help make this happen.'

'It is encouraging that the OFT's survey shows increasing consumer confidence when buying online - but people still have concerns. That's why we will be setting out proposals in our forthcoming consumer White Paper to better protect people from fraudsters and increase their consumer knowledge when shopping on-line.'

OFT survey