NPD Expertise to Oil Wheels for the Census Bureau

The NPD Group is to work with the U.S. Census Bureau to improve the way retailer data is fed into the Bureau's monthly programs.

NPD has offices in 27 cities worldwide and practice areas spanning all the key retail sectors. The deal means the Group is the first third-party data provider to deliver regular data feeds to the Bureau's retail programs, and aims to make reporting of data more convenient, timely and cost-effective for retailers.

The Bureau's Deputy Director, Ron S. Jarmin, says one of its key priorities is to reduce respondent burden while still maintaining quality statistical standards, adding: 'With this agreement, we hope to reduce redundant requirements on U.S. businesses while potentially improving the timeliness, accuracy, and efficiency of our retail trade programs'.

NPD Group SVP of Financial Services, Public Sector and Government Daniel De Pinho (pictured) comments: 'We are thrilled to enter into this contract with the Census Bureau, and work hand-in-hand with the nation's foremost agency measuring economic trends to improve its economic indicators. The Census Bureau relies on retailer reporting for the critical task of gauging the state of our nation's economy - a reflection of consumer sentiment and behavior. Through this arrangement, retailers can rely on NPD to seamlessly work with the Census Bureau directly for these important undertakings, so they may focus their time and resources more thoroughly on their customers and business needs'.

Web site: www.npd.com .