Online shopping is the only bright spot in what is likely to be another bad Christmas for the retail industry. According to the German Retailer's Association (HDE), online retail is expected to grow to €3.2 billion in November and December and make up 5 percent of overall Christmas sales. The figure is the largest since online retail began its steady climb in 1999. Sales online for the entire year are expected to top €13 billion, €2 billion more than last year. Actual stores are not doing so well. Experts say the steady decline in Christmas retail sales that began in 1999 will likely continue this year.