Back-to-school shoppers start early, but focus on value as spending hits record levels
"Affordability is a concern for families and a top priority for retailers as we enter the back-to-school season."
NRF
Consumers keep retail sales growing in June
Retail sales increased again in June as consumers took advantage of summer promotions and began back-to-school shopping early, according to the latest CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor.
Retailers rush inventory ahead of potential August tariffs
Import volumes are set to hit a record high in July as retailers stock up for potential tariff hikes and upcoming back-to-school and holiday seasons.
Walmart leads NRF’s 2026 Top 100 Retailers list
The report highlighted gains by regional grocers, off-price retailers, and hardware chains, with DICK’S Sporting Goods showing a significant increase.
NRF opposes swipe fee settlement
NRF stated the proposed agreement doesn't address retailers' concerns about limited competition in payments and fails to curb rising transaction costs.
NRF: Father’s Day spending to hit all-time high
Online shopping leads purchasing plans, while electronics and personal care gifts post the biggest gains.
Retail sales extend winning streak in May
Retail sales rose for the eighth consecutive month in May as consumers continued spending despite elevated gas prices, tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty.
Imports expected to stay below 2025 levels
Retailers remain cautious about inventory levels amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
Mother’s Day spending expected to hit record $38B
The amount surpasses last year’s total spending.
NRF: Tax refunds help offset gas prices as retail sales grow in March
“Retail sales grew for a sixth consecutive month in March as the first wave of tax refunds offset higher gas prices,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said.
NRF unveils 2026 Top 50 Global Retailers list
“The retail industry continues to show its strength, delivering a solid year despite a range of ongoing challenges,” NRF Chief Economist and Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews said.
Global supply chain shocks drive up container shipping costs
“Just because retailers don’t import a lot of merchandise from the Middle East doesn’t mean the U.S. supply chain isn’t affected by the turmoil there,” says NRF’s Jonathan Gold.
NRF projects 4.4% retail sales growth this year
“We expect that consumer resilience to continue into 2026, with household spending once again serving as a pillar of economic support,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said.
Tariff uncertainty expected to weigh on U.S. container imports in first half of 2026, NRF says
“In addition to tariffs, we are closely watching the situation in Iran and the potential impact it will have on retail supply chains.”
NRF Foundation and PepsiCo Foundation launch $1 Million Retail Training Initiative
Participants will receive training in employability skills such as customer service, technical abilities, industry knowledge, and professional development, earning industry-recognized credentials.
NRF responds to tariff ruling by the Supreme Court
“The Supreme Court’s announcement today regarding tariffs provides much-needed certainty for U.S. businesses and manufacturers.”