Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores
This dataset tracks retail sales: general merchandise stores over time.
Latest Value
80043.00
Year-over-Year Change
3.50%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores trend measures consumer spending at general merchandise stores, which include department stores, warehouse clubs, and supercenters. This data provides insight into the overall health of the retail sector and consumer confidence.
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 Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores indicator tracks monthly changes in sales revenue for a broad category of retailers that sell a variety of merchandise, from clothing and electronics to household goods. This metric is closely watched by economists and policymakers as an important barometer of consumer spending and economic conditions.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales are a key input for GDP calculations and are used to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- General merchandise stores account for over 30% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Retail sales typically decline during economic recessions.
- Monthly retail sales data is released by the U.S. Census Bureau around the middle of each month.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores trend measures monthly changes in sales revenue for a broad category of retailers, including department stores, warehouse clubs, and supercenters.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is an important indicator of consumer spending and overall economic health, providing insight into the strength of the retail sector and consumer confidence.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is a key input for GDP calculations and is closely monitored by economists and policymakers to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The monthly retail sales data is typically released by the Census Bureau around the middle of each month, with a short delay.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores (MRTSSM452USN), retrieved from FRED.