Retail Inventories: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
MRTSIM448USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
57,185.00
Year-over-Year Change
0.88%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Inventories: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores metric tracks the level of inventories held by retailers in the clothing and accessories sector. It provides insight into consumer demand and supply chain dynamics for the apparel industry.
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 economic indicator measures the total dollar value of retail inventories for clothing and clothing accessory stores in the United States. It is used by analysts and policymakers to assess the health and outlook of the retail apparel industry.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of U.S. retail establishments.
Historical Context
Retail inventory data informs economic policy decisions and market forecasts related to consumer spending and the broader apparel industry.
Key Facts
- Clothing and clothing accessory stores account for over $300 billion in annual U.S. retail sales.
- Retail inventory levels can signal shifts in consumer demand and impact production and employment.
- Inventory data helps economists track the health of the apparel supply chain.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Inventories: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores metric measures the total dollar value of inventories held by U.S. retailers in the apparel and accessories sector.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail inventory data provides insights into consumer demand, supply chain dynamics, and the overall health of the apparel industry, which is important for economic forecasting and policy decisions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of U.S. retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail inventory levels inform decisions by policymakers, central banks, and market analysts regarding consumer spending, industry production, and the broader economic outlook.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail inventory data is published monthly with a lag of approximately two months, so it may not reflect the most recent economic conditions.
Related Trends
Monthly State Retail Sales: Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA442
Retail Sales: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSSM4400AUSS
Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores
MRTSSM452USS
Retail Sales: Pharmacies and Drug Stores
MRTSSM44611USN
Advance Retail Sales: Miscellaneous Store Retailers
RSMSR
Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores
MRTSSM446USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Inventories: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores (MRTSIM448USN), retrieved from FRED.