FX.co ★ UK Manufacturing Contracts the Least in a Year

The S&P Global UK Manufacturing PMI increased to 49.6 in October 2025, rising from 46.2 in September and surpassing the market’s expectation of 46.6, according to a preliminary estimate. This figure represents the smallest contraction since October 2024. Manufacturers experienced the most rapid growth in production since September 2024, with the Output Index climbing to 51.2 from 45.7, encouraged by inventory replenishment and a modest rise in domestic demand. Automotive suppliers continue to face challenges due to the JLR cyberattack, although gradual resumption of operations has offered some relief. Although new orders continue to be impacted by US tariffs, the decline in employment has lessened and business confidence has shown improvement.