July sales on the internet in the UK have risen quite markedly, according to a new study, providing hope for small businesses in IT who trade on the internet.

The IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index found that £4.2 billion was spent online during July 2009 - a rise of 15.7 per cent on June figures.

Tina Spooner, the director of information at IMRG, noted that fashion and electrical retailers in particular have reported strong growth, which continue to power the UK's online shopping market.

She continued: "It is evident that online merchants are becoming more sophisticated in their marketing efforts and email communications to their customers, the result of which can be seen in higher conversion rates, particularly in the clothing sector."

However, internet sales of alcohol took a major hit, seeing a yearly decline of 23 per cent, though IMRG and Capgemini attribute this primarily to the wet weather plaguing the UK over the summer, cancelling barbeques and summer picnics.

A number of major e-retailers contribute to the IMRG Capgemini Index including Debenhams, New Look, Tesco and Wilkinson.

According to a recent survey by Connect, the two biggest IT headaches for businesses were 'everyday hassles with IT' (37 per cent) and 'security concerns' (32 per cent).