Retail Sales: Drinking Places

MRTSSM7224USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1,898.00

Year-over-Year Change

3.77%

Date Range

1/1/1992 - 2/1/2018

Summary

The Retail Sales: Drinking Places trend measures monthly sales at U.S. establishments primarily engaged in selling alcoholic beverages for immediate consumption. This metric provides insight into consumer spending patterns and the health of the hospitality industry.

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: Drinking Places series tracks the total value of sales at bars, taverns, nightclubs, and similar drinking establishments. It is a key indicator of consumer demand and confidence, as well as the broader economic conditions affecting the food service and hospitality sectors.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.

Historical Context

Retail sales figures are closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to gauge the strength of consumer spending and broader economic trends.

Key Facts

  • Drinking places account for about 1% of total U.S. retail sales.
  • Retail sales at drinking establishments declined sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Drinking place sales are a leading indicator of consumer discretionary spending.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Retail Sales: Drinking Places trend measures monthly sales at U.S. establishments primarily engaged in selling alcoholic beverages for immediate consumption, such as bars, taverns, and nightclubs.

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

A: This metric provides insight into consumer spending patterns and the health of the hospitality industry, which is a key sector of the U.S. economy.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Retail sales figures, including at drinking establishments, are closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to gauge the strength of consumer spending and broader economic trends.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: There may be lags in data reporting and potential sampling limitations inherent in the monthly survey methodology.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Drinking Places (MRTSSM7224USN), retrieved from FRED.