Monthly data, both seasonally adjusted and unadjusted, for the most recent 10 years are also presented. These data are widely used throughout government, academic, and business communities. The Bureau of Economic Analysis uses the estimates as an input for estimating Gross Domestic Product. The Bureau of the Census uses the data to benchmark the monthly sales and inventory series. The Federal Reserve Board uses accounts receivable balances for measuring consumer credit.
Retail merchants use data to determine market share.
Market research firms use the estimates to analyze market trends and to determine the direction of the economy.