Quarterly

BPCRTF01ILQ637N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

2,897,000,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

16.21%

Date Range

1/1/1980 - 10/1/2014

Summary

The Quarterly Retail and Food Services Sales data measures the total value of retail and food service sales in the United States on a quarterly basis. This metric is a key economic indicator for understanding consumer spending patterns and broader economic trends.

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

The Quarterly Retail and Food Services Sales data provides a comprehensive view of consumer purchasing activity across a range of retail sectors. It is widely used by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to gauge the health of the U.S. economy and inform decision-making.

Methodology

The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Historical Context

This economic indicator helps inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions by the Federal Reserve and Congress.

Key Facts

  • Retail and food service sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
  • The data is released approximately 15 days after the end of each quarter.
  • Consumer spending is a major driver of GDP growth in the United States.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly Retail and Food Services Sales data measures the total value of retail and food service sales in the United States on a quarterly basis.

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

A: This metric is a key economic indicator for understanding consumer spending patterns and broader economic trends, which helps inform policy decisions and market analysis.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The Quarterly Retail and Food Services Sales data helps inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions by the Federal Reserve and Congress.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released approximately 15 days after the end of each quarter.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Retail and Food Services Sales (BPCRTF01ILQ637N), retrieved from FRED.