The S&P Global UK Manufacturing PMI rose to 52.8 in October 2026, up from 51.9 in September and beating market expectations of 51.7, according to the preliminary estimate. This reading signaled the strongest improvement in manufacturing business conditions since May, driven by the fastest increase in output in just over two years and a solid rise in new orders. However, employment edged down slightly over the month.
Supplier delivery times lengthened at the fastest rate since May, reflecting shipping delays and supply chain disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, as well as ongoing global shortages of semiconductors and electronic components. Inventories continued to contract, with purchasing stocks falling for the fifth consecutive month. Input costs also rose sharply, pressured by higher energy, raw material, and transportation prices. Business confidence picked up slightly, supported by expectations that investment in AI and projects in the defense sector will help underpin future growth.
