Retail Sales: Limited Service Eating Places
This dataset tracks retail sales: limited service eating places over time.
Latest Value
32496.00
Year-over-Year Change
34.51%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 3/1/2021
Summary
The Retail Sales: Limited Service Eating Places trend measures consumer spending at fast food and takeout restaurants in the United States. It provides insights into economic activity and consumer behavior.
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 nominal sales at limited-service eating places, which include fast food, take-out, and delivery restaurants. It is an important metric for assessing the health of the food service industry and consumer spending patterns.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to gauge consumer confidence and the state of the broader economy.
Key Facts
- Limited service eating places account for over 40% of total food service sales in the U.S.
- Retail sales at limited service eating places have grown by over 50% in the past decade.
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted this sector, with sales declining by over 25% in 2020.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Limited Service Eating Places trend measures consumer spending at fast food and takeout restaurants in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides insights into consumer behavior and the health of the food service industry, which is an important component of the broader economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to gauge consumer confidence and the state of the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released on a monthly basis, with a typical delay of 1-2 months from the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Limited Service Eating Places (MRTSSM7222USN), retrieved from FRED.