Retailing is a $819 billion business that generates 5.8% of U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, by providing a way for products to get to consumers, retailing also supports the $780 billion wholesaling industry and parts of the $1.5 trillion manufacturing industry. (Source: BEA, "2009 GDP by Industry" most recent)
Retailing includes stores that sell: Motor Vehicles and Parts, Furniture and Home Furnishings, Electronics and Appliances, Building Materials, Food and Beverage, Health and Personal Care, Apparel and Footwear, and all other merchandise including sporting goods, books and music.
The most important time of the year in retailing is the holiday shopping season, which starts the day after Thanksgiving. Nearly 20% of retail sales occur from Black Friday through Christmas.
