The annual Christmas ritual of braving a packed high street for gifts does little to encourage a festive frame of mind.

Hence it is no surprise that 90 per cent of shoppers plan to do at least some of this year’s shopping online, according to the recent American Express 2007 Retail Monitor survey. Respondents said buying online provides a welcome respite from crowds (82 per cent), parking problems (60 per cent) and Christmas music (28 per cent).