19.03.202614:00:00UTC+00U.S. Wholesale Trade Sales Growth Cools to 0.5% in January, Half of December’s Pace

U.S. wholesale trade sales growth eased in January 2026, rising 0.5% month-over-month, down from a 1.0% increase recorded in December 2025. The latest data, updated on 19 March 2026, indicate that while wholesale activity continues to expand, the pace of growth has moderated at the start of the year.

On a month-over-month basis, the January reading reflects a slowdown compared with the prior period, where December’s 1.0% gain was measured against November. The current 0.5% increase, compared to December, signals a more cautious trajectory for wholesale sales as the new year begins, potentially pointing to shifting demand patterns or more conservative inventory and purchasing strategies among distributors.

The data highlight that, although growth remains positive, the momentum seen at the end of 2025 has cooled, setting a more measured tone for wholesale trade in early 2026.