Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers and Gasoline Stations
Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSSM44W72USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
527,807.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.60%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator measures total retail sales in the U.S. motor vehicle and parts dealers industry, providing insights into consumer spending and 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 'Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales trend for the motor vehicle and parts dealers industry represents the total value of goods sold by these establishments. It is a key barometer of consumer demand and a leading indicator of overall economic performance.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of retail businesses.
Historical Context
Analysts and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the health of the automotive sector and broader consumer trends.
Key Facts
- Motor vehicle and parts dealers account for over 20% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Retail sales in this industry have grown by over 50% since the early 2000s.
- Economists view this metric as an early indicator of consumer confidence and economic momentum.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator measures the total value of retail sales for the U.S. motor vehicle and parts dealers industry, providing insights into consumer spending patterns.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is a key barometer of consumer demand and a leading indicator of broader economic performance, making it closely watched by analysts, policymakers, and investors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of retail businesses in the motor vehicle and parts dealers industry.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the health of the automotive sector and broader consumer trends, which informs decision-making around monetary and fiscal policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: This data is released on a monthly basis with a lag of approximately two weeks, and may be subject to revisions as more complete information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSSM44W72USN), retrieved from FRED.