National Retail Federation (NRF)

Import cargo volume falls in Feb. amid tariffs; Iran not yet factor

Imports at major U.S. container ports remained below prior year levels in February 2026 as tariff headwinds continued affecting ocean freight activity.
Swipe fees could cost Easter shoppers almost $600 million

The Merchant Payments Coalition has a not-so-happy forecast for the financial impact of swipe fees on consumers who shop for Easter using credit cards.
Easter spending expected to hit a new record

After a particularly harsh winter in many parts of the country, shoppers are ramping up their Easter spending.
NRF: Retail sales to grow 4.4% in 2026; outlook tops average growth of past 10 years

Consumer resilience is expected to continue in 2026, with higher-income households driving the majority of growth in retail spending.
NRF: Retail sales grow in February for fifth consecutive month

Retail sales grew again in February on both a month over month and year over year basis.
Import cargo volume falls year over year in January

Imports at major U.S. container ports are expected to remain below prior year levels for the first half of 2026 amid ongoing tariff uncertainty.
EXCLUSIVE: Here’s what consumers look for in a promotional offer

Certain factors make a promotional offer more likely to catch the interest of a shopper.
NRF: Core retail sales inch up in January in fourth consecutive monthly gain

Retail sales rose modestly in January as consumers continued to show resilience.

NRF: Retail sales inch up for sixth consecutive month in March