Advance Retail Sales: Nonstore Retailers

Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted

MARTSMPCSM454USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

0.80

Year-over-Year Change

-144.44%

Date Range

2/1/1992 - 7/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the month-over-month percent change in U.S. retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides key insights into consumer spending and the health of the broader economy.

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' retail sales metric tracks fluctuations in consumer demand across a wide range of goods and services. This data is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to assess the strength of the U.S. economy.

Methodology

The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses.

Historical Context

Changes in retail sales are an important indicator of consumer confidence and can influence Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for nearly 30% of overall U.S. economic activity.
  • Consumer spending drives approximately 70% of the U.S. GDP.
  • This 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 U.S. retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations.

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

A: Changes in retail sales are a key indicator of consumer demand and the overall health of the U.S. economy, making this data highly relevant for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the country.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and can influence monetary policy decisions, as changes in consumer spending can impact inflation and economic growth.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: This data is released by the Census Bureau on a monthly basis, with a typical delay of around two weeks from the end of the reference period.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MARTSMPCSM454USS), retrieved from FRED.