Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores
This dataset tracks retail sales: general merchandise stores over time.
Latest Value
76840.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.32%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores trend measures consumer spending at department stores, discount stores, and other general merchandise retailers. It is an important indicator of economic health 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
This monthly retail sales indicator tracks the value of sales at general merchandise stores, which include department stores, discount stores, and other retailers that sell a wide variety of products. It is a key metric for understanding consumer spending patterns and overall economic activity.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of retailers and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales trends are closely watched by economists, policymakers, and financial markets as a gauge of consumer demand and the strength of the broader economy.
Key Facts
- General merchandise stores account for over 12% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Retail sales at general merchandise stores declined 1.8% in 2022 compared to 2021.
- Department stores make up the largest segment of general merchandise retailers.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores trend measures consumer spending at department stores, discount stores, and other retailers that sell a wide variety of products.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This indicator is an important gauge of consumer demand and overall economic health, as general merchandise stores account for a significant portion of total retail sales.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through surveys of retailers and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales trends are closely watched by economists and policymakers as a key indicator of consumer spending and the strength of the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of around two weeks.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores (MRTSSM452USS), retrieved from FRED.