Advance Retail Sales: Building Materials, Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted
RSBMGESDN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
43,117.00
Year-over-Year Change
-1.49%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator measures the U.S. retail and food services sales in millions of dollars on a not seasonally adjusted basis. It provides insights into consumer spending, a key driver of economic growth.
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 and Food Services Sales data tracks the total value of sales at retail and food service establishments across the United States. This metric is widely used by economists and policymakers to assess the health and direction of the consumer economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales data informs decisions by the Federal Reserve, government, and market analysts.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of overall U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending drives over two-thirds of the U.S. gross domestic product.
- Retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator tracks the total dollar value of retail and food services sales in the United States on a not seasonally adjusted basis.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data provides key insights into consumer spending, which is a crucial driver of overall economic activity and growth.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service establishments across the country.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures inform decisions by the Federal Reserve, government policymakers, and market analysts regarding the state of the consumer economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a lag of approximately two weeks from the end of the reference period.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Grocery Stores
MRTSSM4451USS
Retail Sales: Home Furnishings Stores
MRTSSM4422USN
Advance Retail Sales: Auto and Other Motor Vehicle Dealers
RSAOMV
Advance Retail Sales: Food Services and Drinking Places
RSFSDPN
Retail Inventories: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSMPCIM4400AUSN
Advance Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores
RSHPCS
Citation
U.S. Census Bureau, Retail and Food Services Sales (RSBMGESDN), retrieved from FRED.