Economy

Learn more about the current state of retail and the role it plays in supporting the U.S. economy, including retail sales, monthly economic reports and more data from the National Retail Federation.

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Inflation

Explore the causes and impact of inflation on the retail industry, and see what policies could alleviate the burden on consumers and retailers.

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Retail's economic impact

Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. Explore how retail impacts the U.S. economy and dive into retail stats for each state.

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Monthly Economic Review

Each month, NRF reviews the state of the U.S. economy, including consumer sentiment, employment, housing, retail sales and other leading economic indicators.

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State of Retail and the Consumer

NRF’s annual State of Retail and the Consumer event explores the health of the American consumer and key behavior trends. Hear from industry experts: NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay, NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz, Ph.D., retail CEOs from major brands and market researchers.

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NRF Annual Forecast

The NRF annual forecast anticipates the retail sales growth for the year in conjunction with NRF’s annual State of Retail & the Consumer event, where retail industry leaders discuss the strength of the consumer economy and the future of retail.

Global Port Tracker

An evaluation of port data including container import volume, vessel services, congestion, gate operations and new transportation projects.

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Retail Sales

Monthly retail sales figures from NRF, excluding automobiles, gasoline stations and restaurants.

More economic resources

On the Hill

Retailers Commend Congressional Leaders for Action to Prevent Rail Strike

The resolution was approved yesterday in the House.

Economy

Retailers are embracing alternative payment methods, though cards are still king

As consumers look for new ways to spend their money, merchants are making sure they can receive it.

Monthly Economic Review

GDP Growth is Slower But Consumer Spending Remains Positive

GDP isn’t likely to grow as much in the fourth quarter as the third, but consumer spending should remain strong.