The AIB Ireland Services PMI eased to 54.1 in September 2026, down from August’s eight-month high of 55.4, and reached its lowest level since May. This signalled a moderation in services-sector growth for the first time since April and a move below the long-run average.
Despite the softer headline reading, demand strengthened, supported by broad-based expansion across sectors for a second consecutive month. Technology, media and telecommunications recorded the fastest rate of growth. New business rose at its quickest pace in ten months, driven by new client wins and intensified marketing efforts, although growth in new export business was only marginal.
Employment continued to edge higher, even as backlogs of work increased further.
On the inflation front, input costs rose at their fastest rate since May, largely reflecting higher fuel and energy prices. In turn, firms increased their selling prices at the quickest pace in five months.
Business confidence strengthened, reaching its highest level since February 2025, underpinned by planned investment, expectations of new contracts, and ongoing marketing initiatives.
