ACI Worldwide says global e-commerce up 28% in June

Global e-commerce sales rose 28% in June, according to ACI Worldwide, marking the largest year-over-year increase since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The data, based on millions of e-commerce transactions from global merchants, reveals athletic footwear and sporting goods sales rose 117%, outdoor equipment transactions rose by 10% and personal protective equipment PPE and do it yourself (DIY) items also showed a strong increase, according to a press release.

"E-commerce growth remains strong even as COVID-19 pandemic restrictions are being eased, suggesting a possible behavioral shift with consumers young and old around the world as they embrace the convenience of online shopping," Debbie Guerra, executive vice president at ACI Worldwide, said in the release. "In fact, more consumers representing older generations who have traditionally preferred purchasing at brick and mortar stores are finding online shopping to be the new norm."

The report showed that in the U.S., consumer purchases were up about 25% for the month, which was consistent with May trends. Consumer purchases were led mainly by apparel, followed by online gaming.

ACI did not release actual sales volume stating the data is proprietary.