Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores
MRTSSM45321USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
550.00
Year-over-Year Change
-5.34%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores trend measures monthly sales at specialty stores that sell office supplies, stationery, and related products. This metric is a key indicator of consumer spending and business activity in the office and stationery retail sector.
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 series tracks the total value of retail sales at stores primarily engaged in retailing new office supplies, stationery, and gifts. It provides insights into consumer demand and purchasing behavior in the office supply and stationery market, which is relevant for economic analysis and policymaking.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a representative sample of office supply and stationery retailers in the United States.
Historical Context
Analysts and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the health of the office and stationery retail industry and its role in the broader economy.
Key Facts
- Office supply and stationery stores account for over $25 billion in annual retail sales.
- This sector has seen a decline in recent years due to the shift to digital and online alternatives.
- Trends in office supply sales can signal changes in small business and commercial activity.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores trend measures monthly sales at specialty stores that sell office supplies, stationery, and related products.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides insights into consumer demand and purchasing behavior in the office supply and stationery market, which is relevant for economic analysis and policymaking.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a representative sample of office supply and stationery retailers in the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Analysts and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the health of the office and stationery retail industry and its role in the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released on a monthly basis, with a typical lag of 1-2 months between the reference period and the release date.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores (MRTSSM45321USN), retrieved from FRED.