Market analysts report a boom in online sales throughout the nation. Reported growth rates are at 27.4% for buying online which is six times higher than average growth rates of retail sales. US e-commerce sales total $130 billion in 2009.

Merchants are also finding that less savvy consumers start their shopping online, browse research and compare products, but do not necessarily buy online. Bargain shoppers place an even higher priority on web research in today's recession.

Online shopping continues to grow in popularity every year. Shopping this holiday season has shifted from over crowded malls and brick-and-mortar stores to online retailers.