Retail Sales: Building Materials and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSMPCSM444USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.30
Year-over-Year Change
160.00%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the month-over-month percent change in retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides a timely indicator of consumer spending patterns and broader economic activity.
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
The Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted metric tracks the monthly change in total sales at retail and food service establishments across the United States. This key indicator offers insights into the strength and trajectory of consumer demand, a critical driver of economic growth.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects data on retail and food service sales through surveys of a sample of businesses.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this metric to gauge the health of the consumer sector and inform economic forecasting and policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail and food services sales account for nearly 50% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
- Consumer spending makes up over two-thirds of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP).
- This metric is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator tracks the month-over-month percent change in total retail and food service sales across the United States, adjusted for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Consumer spending is a critical driver of economic growth, and this metric provides a timely signal of consumer demand patterns that informs economic forecasting and policy decisions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects data on retail and food service sales through surveys of a sample of businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this metric to gauge the health of the consumer sector and inform economic forecasting and policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: This metric is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical lag of around two weeks from the end of the reference period.
Related Trends
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSMPCSM444USS), retrieved from FRED.