Retail Sales: Book Stores
Percent Change from Preceding Period
MRTSMPCSM451211USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-13.30
Year-over-Year Change
104.62%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the month-over-month percent change in U.S. retail sales. It is a key indicator of consumer spending and a critical input for economic forecasting.
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 for U.S. Retail Sales tracks the monthly rate of change in total sales across a broad range of retail and food service establishments. This timely metric provides insight into the strength and direction of consumer demand, a crucial driver of economic growth.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts monitor this retail sales trend to assess the health of the consumer economy and make informed decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- This metric is released monthly, providing timely insight into consumer trends.
- Positive growth signals an expanding economy, while declines may indicate a slowdown.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Percent Change from Preceding Period for U.S. Retail Sales tracks the monthly rate of change in total sales across retail and food service establishments.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides a timely and reliable indicator of consumer spending, which is a crucial driver of economic growth. Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this trend to assess the health of the consumer economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this retail sales trend to inform their decisions and assessments of the overall state of the consumer economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly, providing timely insight into consumer spending trends. There are no major known limitations or update delays.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers and Gasoline Stations
MRTSSM44W72USS
Monthly State Retail Sales: Food and Beverage Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA445
Retail Sales: Restaurants and Other Eating Places
MRTSSM7225USN
Retail Sales: Other Clothing Stores
MRTSSM44819USN
Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores
MRTSSM452USN
Retail Sales: Shoe Stores
MRTSSM4482USN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period (MRTSMPCSM451211USN), retrieved from FRED.