MILAN (Reuters) - Online fashion retailer Yoox reported on Monday 8 February a 50 percent rise in 2009 sales, as consumers grew more comfortable and confident in using the Internet to shop.

Photo: www.yoox.com

Milan-listed Yoox said in a statement net revenue rose to 152.2 million euros (133 million pounds), driven by a strong performance in all its markets, which include Europe, North America and Japan.

Shares closed up 0.38 percent at 5.30 euros before the statement came out. Yoox listed on the bourse in December, tapping into reviving investor appetite for equities in the first initial public offering in Milan in 20 months.

It sells fashion clothes and accessories on the Internet and operates the online retail websites of designer brands such as Emporio Armani, Valentino and Marni.

Last month, rival ASOS said its sales rose 30 percent in the five weeks to January 3.

(Editing by Steve Orlofsky)