UK Services Growth Continues Despite Weaker September Activity

rki.news | Source: Xinhua
LONDON: Britain’s services sector maintained moderate growth in September despite weaker activity and subdued demand, according to S&P Global data released Monday.
The seasonally adjusted S&P Global UK Services PMI Business Activity Index fell to 52.1 in September from 52.5 in August, while matching July’s reading.
Tim Moore, economics director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said the sector recorded sustained improvement during the third quarter, although growth lost momentum in September.
He said subdued demand and rising inflationary pressures weakened expectations for business activity over the coming year.
New orders increased at their slowest pace since growth began in July, while new business from overseas declined for the seventh consecutive month amid strong competition and weak global economic conditions.
Geopolitical tensions, pressure on household budgets and higher borrowing costs were cited as major sales challenges. Technology services remained a key area of resilient demand.
The data showed job cuts continued for a second consecutive year, although workforce reductions were at their slowest pace since October 2025.
Meanwhile, prices charged by services firms rose at their fastest pace since May as companies faced higher fuel and wage costs.