US hide trading was active on Wednesday February 12, with steady prices reported for heavy native steers and slightly higher prices for butt branded steers. While overall market activity remained limited, sources noted a pick-up in demand, especially in the upholstery and automotive sectors, with increased shipments expected through March.

The chart below shows monthly US advance clothing retail sales from January 2019 to December 2024, based on Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED).

US clothing retail sales in 2019 were relatively stable, serving as a baseline before the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020, sales sharply declined due to lockdowns and reduced consumer spending, though a gradual recovery followed, keeping sales below pre-pandemic levels.

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