4G set to spark £1.8bn surge in smartphone shopping

High-speed 4G could boost the British retail sector by an ­estimated £1.8 billion in a year, a new study suggests.

Retail analysts believe the ­national roll-out of the faster broadband service could prompt a 113 per cent surge in smartphone shopping.

Olivier Ropars, senior director of mobile commerce at eBay Europe, which compiled the report, said: “Consumers today want convenience and speed.

“The arrival of universal 4G will bring with it a more ­immersive, instant and intimate shopping experience.

“It will truly give us the ability to shop anytime, anywhere. That means an extra £1.8bn of consumer spending up for grabs.”