Advance Real Retail and Food Services Sales
This dataset tracks advance real retail and food services sales over time.
Latest Value
223983.00
Year-over-Year Change
1.22%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Advance Real Retail and Food Services Sales trend measures the monthly change in inflation-adjusted retail sales across the United States. This indicator provides critical insights into consumer spending patterns and overall economic health.
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 economic metric tracks the volume and value of retail transactions, adjusted for price changes, offering economists a real-time snapshot of consumer behavior and economic momentum. Analysts use this data to assess consumer confidence, predict economic trends, and understand potential shifts in economic activity.
Methodology
Data is collected through comprehensive surveys of retail establishments, with sales figures adjusted using the Consumer Price Index to reflect real economic activity.
Historical Context
Policymakers and Federal Reserve officials use this trend to inform monetary policy decisions and assess the strength of consumer-driven economic growth.
Key Facts
- Measures monthly changes in inflation-adjusted retail sales
- Includes both goods and food service sales
- Provides early indication of economic performance
FAQs
Q: What does 'real' mean in this context?
A: 'Real' indicates the sales figures are adjusted for inflation, providing a more accurate representation of actual economic activity.
Q: How often is this data updated?
A: The Advance Real Retail and Food Services Sales data is typically updated monthly, usually within the first two weeks of the following month.
Q: Why are retail sales important for economic analysis?
A: Retail sales represent a significant portion of consumer spending, which drives approximately 70% of U.S. economic activity, making it a crucial economic indicator.
Q: How do economists use this data?
A: Economists use this trend to assess consumer confidence, predict economic growth, and understand potential shifts in economic momentum.
Q: What are the limitations of this data?
A: The data provides a snapshot of recent economic activity but does not predict future trends with absolute certainty and can be subject to revisions.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Advance Real Retail and Food Services Sales [RRSFS], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025