Consumer spending increased solidly in December, with e-commerce the clear winner over Christmas.
According to new figures from Visa's Consumer Spending Index shoppers shelled out 2.3% more year on year in December, rounding off 2015 as the second strongest year since 2008, only slightly below 2014.

Face-to-face spending was more or less flat, down 0.1%, but e-commerce rose 7.4%. Growth was led by hotels, restaurants and bars, up 8.1%, household goods, up 4.9% and recreation and culture, up 4.8%.

Visa Europe UK & Ireland managing director Kevin Jenkins said: "Despite concerns about Black Friday limiting growth in December, consumer spending rose solidly last month as retailers benefited from the traditional spending surges in the days just before and after Christmas.

"Much of the stampede took place online though as shoppers took to mobiles, laptops and computers to buy Christmas presents. Evidence also suggests people were spending more online closer to Christmas, perhaps as a result of shorter delivery time and click-and-collect options. In contrast, high street spend remained broadly flat.

"Overall, December rounded off a very strong year for consumer spending, with average monthly growth of 2.3%, as a mix of rising wages, near-zero inflation and a retail price war put more money into consumer pockets."