Advance Retail Sales: Grocery Stores
RSGCS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
75,918.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.72%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Advance Retail Sales: Grocery Stores trend measures monthly sales at U.S. grocery stores, a key indicator of consumer spending and economic activity.
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 retail sales data provides insight into consumer demand and sentiment, which economists and policymakers use to assess the health of the broader economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and publishes this seasonally adjusted data based on surveys of retail establishments.
Historical Context
Grocery store sales are a closely watched component of overall retail activity and consumer confidence.
Key Facts
- Grocery stores make up about 12% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Sales at grocery stores reached a record high in March 2020 due to pandemic stockpiling.
- Grocery sales typically have low volatility compared to other retail sectors.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Advance Retail Sales: Grocery Stores trend measures monthly sales at U.S. grocery stores, a key component of overall consumer spending.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Grocery store sales provide valuable insight into consumer demand and economic conditions, which is important for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail establishments and publishes the seasonally adjusted figures.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Grocery store sales are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions as an indicator of consumer behavior and the overall health of the economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Advance Retail Sales data is published monthly, with a 2-week delay, providing timely information on consumer spending patterns.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Advance Retail Sales: Grocery Stores (RSGCS), retrieved from FRED.