The retail sector’s contribution to the US Gross Domestic Product is 19%, and this number rises constantly. Over the last six years, it rose from 16% and now amounts to $3.9 trillion annually. It also grew its share of US employment from 23% to 26%. Historical retail employment statistics show that the sector is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, and supports more than 52 million jobs in the US. The data clearly indicates the retail industry is crucial to the US economy, considering how much of it is fueled through consumer spending.