The rapid ascent of e-commerce and omnichannel strategies is reshaping consumer engagement and purchasing patterns, driving a wave of transformation across the retail trade sector. As of 2025, the sector is expected to log $7.4 trillion in revenue, although its growth is anticipated to decelerate slightly to 0.4% in the current year. Gen Z and millennials have championed the digital shopping revolution, pushing retailers to prioritize online sales and customer engagement platforms. However, brick-and-mortar stores retain a pivotal role in supporting ongoing customer engagement alongside the online momentum as retailers blend physical and digital experiences. As automation has augmented efficiency across operations, retailers have also strategically diversified product lines and incorporated sustainability into their brands to meet changing consumer expectations. Over the past five years, the retail sector has seen a compound annual growth rate of 2.2%, which underscores the impact of diversified strategies in maintaining momentum. The adoption of automation has produced mixed results. Self-checkout systems, for example, have reduced payroll expenses for businesses while streamlining the customer experience, though several studies have reported that some customer segments dislike self-checkout due to technological glitches and some retailers have struggled with implementation and reported a rise in theft. Major chains like Target have honed their product diversification strategies, transforming their stores into one-stop shops that blend essential goods with discretionary items and healthcare, driving up revenue in multiple categories. Sustainability is another theme of the current period, with the sector’s commitment marked by increased budgets for eco-friendly practices and a growing market for pre-owned goods. Despite high inflation during the period giving way to high interest rates that stayed stagnant for a year before beginning to fall again in September 2024, retailers managed to navigate the challenges of economic fluctuations and keep consumer interest high through diversification. A projected compound annual growth rate of 0.9% for the next five years would set revenue on a steady path toward an expected $7.7 trillion through the end of 2030. Artificial intelligence is set to further revolutionize retail operations, enhancing stock management, logistics and consumer personalization. Augmented and virtual reality technologies will prove integral to engaging the tech-savvy younger generations by offering novel ways to interact with products before purchase. However, global trade tensions and tariffs could challenge profitability as retailers manage higher import costs. Reverse logistics will thrive as consumers’ eco-consciousness continues to grow, turning returns into revenue opportunities and aligning with trends toward sustainable consumption. The sector’s profit is expected to remain steady over the next five years, bolstered by consumers’ willingness to trade up to items that mix luxury and affordability.

The U.S. Census Bureau.s economic indicator surveys provide monthly and quarterly data that are timely, reliable, and offer comprehensive measures of the U.S. economy. These surveys produce a variety of statistics covering construction, housing, international trade, retail trade, wholesale trade, services and manufacturing. The survey data provide measures of economic activity that allow analysis of economic performance and inform business investment and policy decisions. Other data included, which are not considered principal economic indicators, are the Quarterly Summary of State & Local Taxes, Quarterly Survey of Public Pensions, and the Manufactured Homes Survey. For information on the reliability and use of the data, including important notes on estimation and sampling variance, seasonal adjustment, measures of sampling variability, and other information pertinent to the economic indicators, visit the individual programs' webpages - http://www.census.gov/cgi-bin/briefroom/BriefRm.

In 2020, global retail sales fell by 2.9 percent as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, bouncing back in 2021 with a growth of 9.7 percent Global retail sales were projected to amount to around 27.3 trillion U.S. dollars by 2022, up from approximately 23.7 trillion U.S. dollars in 2020.

American retailers worldwide
As a result of globalization and various trade agreements between markets and countries, many retailers are capable of doing business on a global scale. Many of the world’s leading retailers are American companies. Walmart and Amazon are examples of such American retailers. The success of U.S. retailers can also be seen through their performance in online retail.

Retail in the U.S.
The domestic retail market in the United States is a lucrative market, in which many companies compete. Walmart, a retail chain offering low prices and a wide selection of products, is the leading retailer in the United States. Amazon, The Kroger Co., Costco, and Target are a selection of other leading U.S. retailers.

Retail Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global retail market size reached USD 29.4 trillion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% recorded over recent years. This robust expansion is primarily driven by evolving consumer preferences, digital transformation, and the rapid adoption of omnichannel retail strategies. Based on current growth trends and our comprehensive analysis, the global retail market is forecasted to achieve a value of USD 46.1 trillion by 2033, underscoring the sector's pivotal role in the global economy and its consistent appeal across diverse demographics and geographies.

A significant growth factor for the retail market is the accelerated shift towards digitalization and e-commerce. The proliferation of internet connectivity, smartphone adoption, and advanced payment solutions has fundamentally transformed how consumers interact with retail brands. Retailers are leveraging artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and personalized marketing to enhance the customer experience and drive sales. The integration of online and offline channels, commonly known as omnichannel retailing, allows businesses to offer seamless shopping experiences, enabling consumers to research, purchase, and return products across multiple platforms. This digital evolution is not only attracting tech-savvy younger generations but also expanding the reach of retail businesses to previously underserved markets, thereby fueling overall industry growth.

Another crucial driver is the increasing focus on sustainability and ethical consumption. Modern consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, demanding transparency in sourcing, production, and distribution processes. Retailers are responding by adopting sustainable supply chains, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible sourcing practices. This trend is particularly prominent in the apparel, food and beverage, and health and personal care segments, where ethical considerations significantly influence purchasing decisions. Retailers who prioritize sustainability are gaining a competitive edge, building brand loyalty, and attracting a growing segment of consumers willing to pay a premium for ethically produced goods. This shift towards responsible retailing is expected to further accelerate market growth in the coming years.

Additionally, the expansion of organized retail formats and the modernization of traditional retail infrastructure are propelling the market forward. Emerging economies are witnessing a transformation from unorganized, fragmented retail landscapes to more structured, organized formats such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty stores. This transition is driven by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and shifting lifestyles, particularly in Asia Pacific and Latin America. The entry of international retail giants and the rise of homegrown organized retail chains are enhancing product accessibility, variety, and quality. As organized retail continues to penetrate deeper into rural and semi-urban areas, it is expected to unlock new growth avenues and contribute significantly to the overall expansion of the global retail market.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific remains the dominant force in the global retail market, accounting for the largest share in 2024. The region's growth is underpinned by rapid urbanization, a burgeoning middle class, and high consumer spending, particularly in China and India. North America and Europe continue to exhibit steady growth, driven by technological innovation and mature retail infrastructures. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging as promising markets, supported by improving economic conditions and increasing investments in retail development. This diverse regional outlook highlights the global nature of the retail industry and the multitude of opportunities available for market participants across different geographies.

Product Type Analysis

The retail market is segmented by product type into food & bev

United States Retail Sales (RS): Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS) data was reported at 5,269.468 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 5,053.151 USD bn for 2017. United States Retail Sales (RS): Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS) data is updated yearly, averaging 3,612.471 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 5,269.468 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 1,811.237 USD bn in 1992. United States Retail Sales (RS): Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS) data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

RS: ARTS: FB: Grocery Stores data was reported at 665.097 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 647.813 USD bn for 2017. RS: ARTS: FB: Grocery Stores data is updated yearly, averaging 457.667 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 665.097 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 337.370 USD bn in 1992. RS: ARTS: FB: Grocery Stores data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

The global retail market size reached USD 30,092.3 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 48,867.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.26% during 2025-2033. There are various factors that are driving the market, which include the rising focus on personalized user experience, technological innovations, and various collaborations and partnerships among key players to expand their market reach and increase user engagement.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product and distribution channel.

United States (FDI) Foreign Direct Investment: Retail Trade data was reported at 6.061 USD bn in Dec 2024. This records an increase from the previous number of 4.114 USD bn for Sep 2024. United States (FDI) Foreign Direct Investment: Retail Trade data is updated quarterly, averaging 937.000 USD mn from Mar 1997 (Median) to Dec 2024, with 111 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 50.573 USD bn in Dec 2018 and a record low of -6.096 USD bn in Jun 2007. United States (FDI) Foreign Direct Investment: Retail Trade data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bureau of Economic Analysis. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.O001: Foreign Direct Investment: by Industry: NAICS: Flow.

As of 2020, sea transportation represented the main channel for international trade in Morocco, covering over 96 percent of the modes. Moreover, foreign trade activities carried out by land occupied 2.43 percent of the total transportation. Overall, in the same year, Europe was the main import and export transaction partner of Morocco.

United States RS: ARTS: Nonstore Retailers(NR) data was reported at 696.849 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 629.204 USD bn for 2017. United States RS: ARTS: Nonstore Retailers(NR) data is updated yearly, averaging 255.579 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 696.849 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 78.501 USD bn in 1992. United States RS: ARTS: Nonstore Retailers(NR) data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

United States RS: ARTS: SG: Book Stores & News Dealers data was reported at 10.543 USD bn in 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 11.320 USD bn for 2017. United States RS: ARTS: SG: Book Stores & News Dealers data is updated yearly, averaging 14.631 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 18.452 USD bn in 2007 and a record low of 9.303 USD bn in 1992. United States RS: ARTS: SG: Book Stores & News Dealers data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

United States RS: ARTS: Taxes: MS: Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers data was reported at 3.314 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 3.194 USD bn for 2017. United States RS: ARTS: Taxes: MS: Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers data is updated yearly, averaging 2.289 USD bn from Dec 2004 (Median) to 2018, with 15 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.314 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 1.929 USD bn in 2004. United States RS: ARTS: Taxes: MS: Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

RS: ARTS: HP: Pharmacies & Drug Stores data was reported at 288.846 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 277.396 USD bn for 2017. RS: ARTS: HP: Pharmacies & Drug Stores data is updated yearly, averaging 179.170 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 288.846 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 77.791 USD bn in 1992. RS: ARTS: HP: Pharmacies & Drug Stores data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

Kazakhstan Retail Trade Turnover data was reported at 1,796,432.913 KZT mn in Mar 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,469,290.437 KZT mn for Feb 2025. Kazakhstan Retail Trade Turnover data is updated monthly, averaging 386,536.650 KZT mn from Feb 2001 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 290 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2,959,415.072 KZT mn in Dec 2024 and a record low of 50,506.000 KZT mn in Feb 2001. Kazakhstan Retail Trade Turnover data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bureau of National Statistics of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Kazakhstan – Table KZ.H001: Retail Trade Turnover.

United States RS: ARTS: E-Commerce: Nonstore Retailers (NR) data was reported at 453.584 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 400.279 USD bn for 2017. United States RS: ARTS: E-Commerce: Nonstore Retailers (NR) data is updated yearly, averaging 116.498 USD bn from Dec 1998 (Median) to 2018, with 21 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 453.584 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 4.029 USD bn in 1998. United States RS: ARTS: E-Commerce: Nonstore Retailers (NR) data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

United States RS: ARTS: GM: OG: Warehouse Clubs & Superstores data was reported at 484.065 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 465.322 USD bn for 2017. United States RS: ARTS: GM: OG: Warehouse Clubs & Superstores data is updated yearly, averaging 271.920 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 484.065 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 40.025 USD bn in 1992. United States RS: ARTS: GM: OG: Warehouse Clubs & Superstores data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.

Key information about Italy Retail Sales Growth

• Italy Retail Sales grew 0.8 % YoY in Jan 2025, compared with a 1.4 % increase in the previous month.
• Italy Retail Sales Growth YoY data is updated monthly, available from Jan 2001 to Jan 2025, with an average growth rate of 0.7 %.
• The data reached an all-time high of 34.5 % in Apr 2021 and a record low of -27.5 % in Apr 2020.
• In the latest reports, Car Sales of Italy recorded 1,794,655.0 units in Dec 2023, representing a growth of 19.2 %.

RS: ARTS: Taxes: CC: Jewelry, Luggage & Leather Goods Stores data was reported at 2.784 USD bn in 2022. This records an increase from the previous number of 2.677 USD bn for 2021. RS: ARTS: Taxes: CC: Jewelry, Luggage & Leather Goods Stores data is updated yearly, averaging 1.679 USD bn from Dec 2004 (Median) to 2022, with 19 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2.784 USD bn in 2022 and a record low of 1.345 USD bn in 2009. RS: ARTS: Taxes: CC: Jewelry, Luggage & Leather Goods Stores data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by U.S. Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H009: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS 2017.

France BS: Retail Trade: sa: Sales: Retail Trade (RT): Recent Trend data was reported at -20.800 % Point in Nov 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of -16.300 % Point for Oct 2018. France BS: Retail Trade: sa: Sales: Retail Trade (RT): Recent Trend data is updated monthly, averaging -27.600 % Point from Jan 1991 (Median) to Nov 2018, with 335 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 9.000 % Point in Dec 1999 and a record low of -68.800 % Point in Feb 1991. France BS: Retail Trade: sa: Sales: Retail Trade (RT): Recent Trend data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by French National Institute for Statistics and Economic Studies. The data is categorized under Global Database’s France – Table FR.S011: Business Survey: Retail Trade Sector.

United States RS: ARTS: BM: SD: Hardware Stores data was reported at 26.476 USD bn in 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 24.900 USD bn for 2017. United States RS: ARTS: BM: SD: Hardware Stores data is updated yearly, averaging 18.667 USD bn from Dec 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 26.476 USD bn in 2018 and a record low of 12.670 USD bn in 1992. United States RS: ARTS: BM: SD: Hardware Stores data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.H003: Retail Sales: Annual Retail Trade Survey: NAICS.