Retail Sales: Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Stores
This dataset tracks retail sales: gift, novelty, and souvenir stores over time.
Latest Value
1982.00
Year-over-Year Change
7.02%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator tracks monthly retail sales at gift, novelty, and souvenir stores in the United States. It provides insights into consumer spending and demand for discretionary items.
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: Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Stores indicator measures the total value of sales at retail establishments primarily engaged in the sale of gifts, novelty merchandise, and souvenirs. It is a key metric for understanding consumer behavior and the health of the retail sector.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use this indicator to assess consumer confidence and the broader economic climate.
Key Facts
- Gift and novelty store sales account for over $50 billion in annual U.S. retail revenue.
- Sales at these stores tend to be more sensitive to economic conditions than other retail sectors.
- The indicator is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Stores indicator tracks the total value of monthly sales at U.S. retail establishments primarily engaged in selling gifts, novelty merchandise, and souvenirs.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This indicator provides insights into consumer spending habits and demand for discretionary items, which can be used to assess broader economic conditions and consumer confidence.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this indicator to monitor consumer behavior and the health of the retail sector, which can inform economic policies and decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The indicator is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of around two weeks from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Stores (MRTSSM45322USN), retrieved from FRED.