Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores
Percent Change from Preceding Period
MRTSMPCSM45321USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-6.50
Year-over-Year Change
-13.33%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Percent Change from Preceding Period tracks the monthly percent change in U.S. retail and food services sales. This metric is a key indicator of consumer spending and economic growth.
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 series measures the month-over-month percent change in total U.S. retail and food services sales. It is a widely watched barometer of consumer demand and a leading indicator of broader economic conditions.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the United States.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this metric to assess the health of the consumer sector and guide economic policy decisions.
Key Facts
- The series is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending drives approximately two-thirds of U.S. GDP.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Percent Change from Preceding Period tracks the monthly percent change in total U.S. retail and food services sales, a key indicator of consumer spending and economic growth.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is closely watched by policymakers, economists, and investors as a leading indicator of broader economic conditions and the health of the consumer sector.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the United States by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this metric to assess consumer demand and guide decisions on monetary and fiscal policy to support economic growth.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly with a typical 2-week delay, and may be subject to revisions as more complete information becomes available.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Furniture Stores
MRTSSM4421USN
Retail Inventories: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSIM441USS
Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores
MRTSSM45321USN
Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers and Gasoline Stations
MRTSSM44W72USS
Retail Inventories: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSMPCIM4400AUSN
Advance Retail Sales: Miscellaneous Store Retailers
RSMSR
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period (MRTSMPCSM45321USN), retrieved from FRED.