Online sales in the UK increased by 13% in February, according to research conducted by online retail research group IMRG Capgemini.

The online sector is one of the best performing in the UK economy and has been growing rapidly over the last few years - highlighting the importance for small businesses to establish an online presence.

Although online sales actually declined in February from the previous month, this was due to enhanced sales in January thanks to post-Christmas sales.

"These results show that the strong post-Christmas sales push and a toughening retail market have indeed led to a drop in spending from January to February," said Mike Petevinos, head of consulting for retail at Capgemini.