The ISM Non-Manufacturing Index registered 59.8 points in September, 4.5 percentage points above August’s figure. This was the 93rd consecutive month of expansion as a reading above 50 indicates growth. Fifteen non-manufacturing industries reported growth in September, while two reported contraction. September’s reading was the highest since February 2012.
Growth in the Business Activity Index increased 3.8 points to 61.3, the 98th consecutive month of growth. Fourteen industries reported increased business activity and three reported decreased activity.
Non-manufacturing employment grew for the 43rd consecutive month. The index increased 0.6 point to 56.8. Ten industries reported increased employment, while five reported decreased employment.
The New Orders Index grew 5.9 points to 63.0. Fifteen industries reported increased business activity and one industry reported decreased activity.
Supplier deliveries slowed for the 21st consecutive month, as the index registered 58.0 points (readings above 50 for this index indicate slower deliveries). Thirteen industries reported slower deliveries, while two reported faster deliveries.
Read the ISM release.
