Retail Sales: Full Service Restaurants

MRTSSM7221USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

27,018.00

Year-over-Year Change

8.40%

Date Range

1/1/1992 - 1/1/2020

Summary

The Retail Sales: Full Service Restaurants trend measures consumer spending at full-service restaurants in the United States. It is a key 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 economic indicator tracks the dollar value of retail sales at establishments primarily engaged in providing food services and drinks for immediate consumption, such as full-service restaurants. It is a valuable metric for assessing the strength of the consumer sector and broader economic conditions.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on monthly surveys of retail businesses.

Historical Context

Economists and policymakers closely monitor this trend to gauge consumer spending patterns and inform fiscal and monetary policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales at full-service restaurants account for over 25% of total food service and drinking place sales.
  • Spending at full-service restaurants is closely tied to consumer confidence and discretionary income.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp decline in full-service restaurant sales in 2020.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Retail Sales: Full Service Restaurants trend measures consumer spending at full-service restaurants in the United States.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This trend is a key indicator of economic health and consumer confidence, providing valuable insights into the strength of the consumer sector.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on monthly surveys of retail businesses.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Economists and policymakers closely monitor this trend to gauge consumer spending patterns and inform fiscal and monetary policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of around one month.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Full Service Restaurants (MRTSSM7221USN), retrieved from FRED.