S&P Global Market Intelligence's UK services PMI final rose to 52.5 in August
from 52.1 in July, the strongest expansion since April and marginally below the
52.8 preliminary reading. The dominant services sector expanded for a second
consecutive months and business confidence recovered, but the number of firms
reporting higher selling prices increased — a development that could concern the
Bank of England. The report said the economy showed resilience despite the
outbreak of war between the US and Iran. S&P Global Market Intelligence
economics director Tim Moore said: "August data highlights an improvement in
overall operating conditions in the UK services sector. Business and consumer
spending, after falling in Q2 2026, has returned to growth."
