Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Food and Beverage Stores
MRTSIR445USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
0.75
Year-over-Year Change
2.74%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio for Food and Beverage Stores measures the relationship between inventory levels and sales in this retail sector. It is an important indicator of supply chain dynamics and consumer demand.
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 ratio represents the level of retail inventories relative to sales for food and beverage stores. It provides insight into retailer inventory management strategies and can signal changes in consumer buying patterns or production-side constraints.
Methodology
The data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau through monthly retail trade surveys.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to assess the health of the retail sector and broader economic conditions.
Key Facts
- The ratio reached a record high of 1.28 in April 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- In 2022, the ratio has remained elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels.
- A higher ratio indicates retailers have more inventory relative to sales.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio for Food and Beverage Stores measures the relationship between inventory levels and sales in this retail sector.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This ratio provides insight into retailer inventory management strategies and can signal changes in consumer buying patterns or production-side constraints, making it a valuable indicator of the health of the retail sector and broader economic conditions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau through monthly retail trade surveys.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to assess the health of the retail sector and broader economic conditions, as it can signal changes in consumer demand and supply chain dynamics.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly with a typical lag of around one month.
Related Trends
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Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Gasoline Stations
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Retail Sales: Clothing Stores
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Retail Sales: Food Services and Drinking Places
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Retail Sales: Office Supplies, Stationery, and Gift Stores
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Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Food and Beverage Stores (MRTSIR445USS), retrieved from FRED.