Online retailers reap benefits

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Australians are embracing online shopping and internet retailers are reaping the benefits. eBay, the online auction site, says the sector is meeting the needs of the modern, time-poor consumer.

The company's Australia and New Zealand managing director, Deborah Sharkey, told a conference in Sydney the local sector is looking at double-digit growth this year. She rejected concerns that consumer spending is favouring overseas internet retailers.

Last year the turnover of the top 2000 sellers on eBay was more than A$120,000 ($160,000) and the top seller generated turnover of more than A$12.6 million, Ms Sharkey said.