Retail Inventories: General Merchandise Stores
This dataset tracks retail inventories: general merchandise stores over time.
Latest Value
99094.00
Year-over-Year Change
3.06%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Inventories: General Merchandise Stores trend measures the inventory levels at general merchandise stores in the United States. It provides valuable insights into consumer demand and retail supply chain dynamics.
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 tracks the total dollar value of merchandise held in inventory by general merchandise stores, such as department stores, mass merchandisers, and warehouse clubs. It is an important barometer of the health and balance of the retail sector.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to assess the strength of consumer spending and optimize inventory management across the retail industry.
Key Facts
- General merchandise stores account for over 30% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Inventory levels are a leading indicator of future consumer demand.
- Declining inventories can signal an economic slowdown or changing consumer preferences.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Inventories: General Merchandise Stores trend measures the total dollar value of merchandise held in inventory by general merchandise stores in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides valuable insights into consumer demand and retail supply chain dynamics, which are important for policymakers, businesses, and economic analysts to monitor.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to assess the strength of consumer spending and optimize inventory management across the retail industry.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly, with a typical delay of 4-6 weeks from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Inventories: General Merchandise Stores (MRTSIM452USS), retrieved from FRED.