Advance Retail Sales: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted
MARTSMPCSM448USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
0.70
Year-over-Year Change
40.00%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the month-over-month percent change in retail sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides a timely indicator of consumer spending and overall economic activity.
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 Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted metric tracks the monthly change in total retail and food services sales, a key measure of consumer demand. This data point is closely watched by economists and policymakers to gauge the health of the broader economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and reports this data based on surveys of retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are used to inform economic policy decisions and provide insight into consumer confidence and the strength of the consumer-driven economy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending has driven over 2/3 of U.S. GDP growth since 2010.
- Retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the month-over-month percent change in total retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales figures are a crucial indicator of consumer demand and overall economic health, making this data point closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through surveys of retail and food service businesses nationwide.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data informs economic policy decisions and provides insight into consumer confidence and the strength of the consumer-driven economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a short delay to allow for data collection and processing.
Related Trends
Advance Retail Sales: Gasoline Stations
RSGASS
Monthly State Retail Sales: Food and Beverage Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA445
Retail Sales: Supermarkets and Other Grocery (Except Convenience) Stores
MRTSSM44511USN
Retail Inventories: Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronics, and Appliance Stores
MRTSIM4423XUSS
Retailers Inventories
RETAILIMSA
Retail Sales: Grocery Stores
MRTSSM4451USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MARTSMPCSM448USS), retrieved from FRED.