UK online shopping on the internet became popular in the 1990's . For years many people held back from buying online because they felt that their credit cards could become at risk if they gave out details when indulging in UK online shopping. A free copy of 'Tips for Safe Online Shopping' is available here .

Retailers and banks were well aware of this concern and since the mid 90's have sought to better protect the consumer. Many credit card companies now offer not only protection from misuse of their card details over the internet, but also in some cases award extended guarantees with UK online shopping. Check your own card to see what your provider offers. This protection helps the consumer but can give the retailer a problem due to 'chargebacks'. A chargeback is when the retailer thinks a valid UK online shopping sale has taken place, only to find out later that the credit card company has refused to pay due to possible misuse of the card.

Is UK online shopping right for me?

The understanding that UK online shopping is now far safer for the consumer is resulting in rapidly rising consumer spending on the internet. UK online shopping is predicted to top £1 billion in 2003. Ecommerce grew by 130% in 2002, compared with 70% in 2001 and now accounts for 6% of all retail sales. These figures mark the coming of age of UK online shopping. Roger Willcocks, managing director of ecommerce provider Screen Pages recently said at a major London E-commerce Forum: “At the end of last year Europe overtook the US in e-commerce for the first time".

A recommended way to buy online is to use a good UK online shopping guide. The UK Online Shopping Directory offers a comprehensive guide to premier websites. The categories are clearly laid out and by clicking on the images and links take you directly onto the online shops of your choice. There are too many departments available to list them all here, but include :

• Cars - Buying, Selling, Parts, Insurance, Hiring.
• Department Stores - From Argos to John Lewis, Debenhams to Marks & Spencer etc.
• DIY - Homebase, B&Q, and many other stores catering for DIY requirements
• Electrical Goods - White goods, Cookers to TV's, electrical items from 'Which' approved retailers.
• Fashion & Clothes - Clothing, footwear, womenswear, childrens clothing, designer fashion.
• Finance - Credit Cards, loans, mortgage arrangements etc.
• Food & Drink - Chocolates to champagne, organic food to pizzas, fruit, wine uk online shops.
• Gifts - Gifts for her, him, them, your parents, loved ones and your aunt who popped in the other day.
• Jewellery - Diamonds, Gold, Silver, designer jewellery, cufflinks, necklaces, pendants, accessories.
• Pets - Cats and Dogs will appreciate you visiting here.
• Sports - Golf, fishing, athletics, outdoor equipment and clothing, jackets, tents etc.
• Travel - Cheap air fares, hotels, car hire, package holidays, last minute deals, train bookings etc.

For Shopping in the USA we recommend you use the 1st-USA-Shopping Directory.
For Jewellery Shopping in the UK try the UK Jewellery Online Directory.
For Lingerie Shopping in the UK try the 1st Choice Lingerie Shopping Directory

The UK Online Shopping Directory will guide you along an enjoyable UK online shopping experience. Using a guide is more helpful than struggling to remember all the web addresses of the major UK online high street stores. Remember, you are the customer and should find buying online a pleasant experience. UK online shopping can be your shopping solution. Need a gift? A dishwasher? Clothes or a new Jacket? Food delivered to your door? With UK online shopping there are no parking fees, no queuing!

In summary, shopping on the internet is quick and convenient and should be no riskier than buying by mail order or on the phone. We'll end with a quote from the official UK government consumer website, www.consumer.gov.uk -
'Last year, the DTI carried out research into consumer attitudes to internet shopping. New research carried out this year, which also examines UK consumers’ cross-border shopping habits and experiences, shows that while consumers have greater confidence in shopping online now than a year ago, some of the same concerns are preventing more people from spending their money online. By following a few simple tips, it is possible to shop safely online.'

This review written by Michael W Taylor ©2003-2008. Return to Home Page

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