Retail Sales: Warehouse Clubs and Supercenters
This dataset tracks retail sales: warehouse clubs and supercenters over time.
Latest Value
-4.40
Year-over-Year Change
100.00%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Warehouse Clubs and Supercenters trend measures consumer spending at large retail establishments like Costco and Walmart. It's a key indicator of consumer demand and economic health.
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 the monthly sales revenue for warehouse clubs, supercenters, and other large-format retail stores. It provides insight into consumer behavior and spending patterns, which are important factors for policymakers and analysts monitoring the broader economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Warehouse club and supercenter sales are closely watched by economists and investors as a barometer of consumer confidence and discretionary spending.
Key Facts
- Warehouse clubs and supercenters account for over 10% of total U.S. retail sales.
- This sector saw a major surge in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic as consumers stocked up.
- Walmart and Costco are the two largest players in this retail segment.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Warehouse Clubs and Supercenters trend measures monthly sales revenue at large-format retail stores like warehouse clubs and supercenters.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides insight into consumer spending patterns and demand, which are key indicators of broader economic health and consumer confidence.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Warehouse club and supercenter sales are closely watched by policymakers, economists, and investors as a barometer of consumer behavior and the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released on a monthly basis with a short lag, providing timely insight into consumer spending trends.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Warehouse Clubs and Supercenters (MPCSM452311USN), retrieved from FRED.