Online retailers get strong start

NEW YORK — Online retailers had a better-than-expected start to the holiday season, according to one Internet research firm that tracks online sales.

ComScore Networks Inc. reported Wednesday online sales rose 26 percent to $608 million on Monday from the same day a year ago. “Cyber Monday” marks the first major spike in spending during the holiday season as people return to work and click onto their computers. ComScore had expected a 24 percent increase in sales.

The strong sales performance was the result of heavy marketing and discounting by retailers who are trying to outdo each other. Walmart.com began on Monday a five-day special on such online-only items as certain flat-screen TVs and cashmere scarves. Barnesandnoble.com is wooing shoppers with a free tote bag if they spend $75 or more. Circuitcity.com offered special coupons.

To fuel the hype surrounding Cyber Monday, the National Retail Federation launched a new site last week called CyberMonday.com, which pulled together online discounts for both Cyber Monday and through the holiday season from nearly 400 retailers. ComScore said that site attracted 300,000 U.S. visitors on Monday.