Retail Sales: All Other General Merchandise Stores
MPCSM452319USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-7.70
Year-over-Year Change
5.48%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: All Other General Merchandise Stores trend measures sales volumes at retail establishments like department stores, warehouse clubs, and superstores. It provides insight into consumer spending patterns and overall 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 retail sales metric tracks the dollar value of goods sold by a broad category of general merchandise stores, excluding specific sectors like motor vehicles, gasoline stations, and grocery stores. It is a key indicator of consumer demand and an important data point for economists and policymakers.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to assess the strength of the consumer economy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. economic activity.
- General merchandise stores include department stores, warehouse clubs, and superstores.
- Retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: All Other General Merchandise Stores trend measures the dollar value of goods sold by a broad category of retail establishments, excluding specific sectors like motor vehicles and grocery stores.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This retail sales metric provides insight into consumer spending patterns and overall economic health, making it an important data point 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 businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to assess the strength of the consumer economy and inform policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a short lag time between the reference period and publication.
Related Trends
Retail Inventories: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
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Retail Sales: Building Materials and Supplies Dealers
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Advance Retail Sales: Food Services and Drinking Places
RSFSDP
Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
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Retail Sales: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
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Advance Retail Sales: Miscellaneous Store Retailers
RSMSR
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: All Other General Merchandise Stores (MPCSM452319USN), retrieved from FRED.