FX.co ★ UK Manufacturing PMI Hits 17-Month High

The S&P Global UK Manufacturing PMI increased to 51.6 in January 2026, up from December's 50.6, surpassing market expectations of 50.6, according to preliminary estimates. This latest figure indicates the most significant improvement in manufacturing conditions since August 2024. This growth was fueled by the largest surge in production since October and the first rise in new export orders in four years. However, employment figures continued to drop. On the pricing front, both input costs and factory gate charges experienced further increases. Despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, business confidence saw a marked improvement. Companies attributed this optimism to planned investments, a revival in sales pipelines, better overall economic conditions, and reduced borrowing costs.