Digital dollars dwindling?

The New York Times reports that online sales have slowed sharply in major sectors like books, tickets and office supplies. While the optimistic digirati expected growth in the sector to continue into digital eternity, recent reports contend that a tapering in sales growth was inevitable. Forrester Research projects that online book sales will rise 11 percent this year, compared with nearly 40 percent last year. Apparel sales, which increased 61 percent last year, are expected to slow to 21 percent. And sales of pet supplies are expected to rise 30 percent this year versus 81 percent last year. Jupiter Research meanwhile, projects that overall online sales growth will slow to nine percent a year by the end of the decade from as much as 25 percent in 2004, according to the article.

To learn more:
- read CNet's article