Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers and Gasoline Stations
This dataset tracks advance retail sales: retail trade and food services, excluding motor vehicle and parts dealers and gasoline stations over time.
Latest Value
535948.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.42%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
The Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers and Gasoline Stations measures consumer spending in the retail sector, excluding auto and gas sales, which is a key indicator of economic activity and consumer confidence.
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 series tracks month-over-month changes in total sales receipts for retailers and food service establishments, providing insight into the overall health of the consumer-driven economy. It is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of retail and food service firms.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures help inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions that aim to promote stable economic growth.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Advance retail sales data is released around the 15th of each month.
- Motor vehicle and gasoline sales are excluded to focus on core consumer demand.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Advance Retail Sales metric tracks monthly changes in total sales receipts for retailers and food service establishments, excluding motor vehicles and gasoline stations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales are a key indicator of consumer spending and economic health, providing insights that help guide policy decisions and market analysis.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of retail and food service firms across the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures help inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions aimed at promoting stable economic growth and consumer confidence.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Advance Retail Sales data is released around the 15th of each month, providing a timely indicator of consumer spending trends.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers and Gasoline Stations (MARTSSM44W72USS), retrieved from FRED.