Advance Retail Inventories: Retail (Excluding Food Services)

ARINVTS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

808,740.00

Year-over-Year Change

0.26%

Date Range

5/1/2025 - 6/1/2025

Summary

The Advance Retail Inventories: Retail (Excluding Food Services) trend measures the monthly change in inventory levels for the retail sector, excluding food services. This metric is a key indicator of economic activity and consumer demand.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

This economic indicator tracks the month-over-month changes in the total value of merchandise held in inventory by U.S. retail businesses, excluding food services. It provides insights into retailers' ability to meet consumer demand and can signal future production and sales trends.

Methodology

The data is collected through a monthly survey of a sample of retail businesses.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts use this metric to gauge the health of the retail sector and broader economy.

Key Facts

  • Retail inventories account for over $2 trillion in total U.S. economic output.
  • Inventory levels can signal future production and sales trends.
  • The data is released monthly, approximately 15 days after the end of the reference period.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Advance Retail Inventories: Retail (Excluding Food Services) tracks the monthly change in inventory levels for the retail sector, excluding food services.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric provides insights into retailers' ability to meet consumer demand and can signal future production and sales trends, making it a key indicator of economic activity.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through a monthly survey of a sample of retail businesses.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to gauge the health of the retail sector and broader economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released monthly, approximately 15 days after the end of the reference period.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Advance Retail Inventories: Retail (Excluding Food Services) (ARINVTS), retrieved from FRED.