U.S. retail inventories excluding autos inched up in July, with the indicator rising to 0.8% from a previously recorded 0.7%. Both the prior and current readings are reported for July 2026, with the latest data update released on 16 September 2026.
The modest uptick suggests retailers outside the automotive sector continued to build stock at a slightly faster pace, potentially reflecting expectations of steady or improving consumer demand. While the change is small, it may hint at cautious optimism among merchants as they adjust inventory levels heading into the latter part of the year. Further monthly data will be needed to determine whether this marks the beginning of a firmer upward trend in non-auto retail inventories or a temporary adjustment.