Changes in the Outputs of Annual Retail Trade Surveys - ARCHIVED

This paper has two goals. The first is to inform retail store data users, industry analysts, trade associations and other stakeholders about these changes. The second is to consult with stakeholders on possible data outputs resulting from the changes.

The paper is organized into five parts. Following the introduction, Part II describes the outputs from the current surveys and compares and contrasts the current outputs with the new. Part III focuses on the introduction of NAICS codes and the changes in coverage for retail trade. In Part IV, the benefits resulting from the above changes are outlined. The final part (Part V) seeks comments or suggestions from data users, retail trade associations and industry specialists on the release of data products as a result of the changes to the surveys.