The Institute for Supply Management said its Non-Manufacturing Index registered registered 55.1% in September, 1.4 percentage points higher than the 53.7% registered in August, indicating continued growth this month at a faster rate in the non-manufacturing sector. Moreover, economic activity in the non-manufacturing sector grew in September for the 33rd consecutive month.

A reading above 50% indicates the non-manufacturing sector economy is generally expanding; below 50% indicates the non-manufacturing sector is generally contracting.

The Non-Manufacturing Business Activity Index registered 59.9%, which is 4.3 percentage points higher than the 55.6% reported in August, reflecting growth for the 38th consecutive month. The New Orders Index increased by 4 percentage points to 57.7%.

The Employment Index decreased by 2.7 percentage points to 51.1%, indicating growth in employment for the second consecutive month but at a slower rate. The Prices Index increased 3.8 percentage points to 68.1%, indicating higher month-over-month prices when compared to August.

Respondents’ comments continue to be mixed; however, the majority indicate a slightly more positive perspective on current business conditions.

The 12 non-manufacturing industries reporting growth in September — listed in order — are: Transportation & Warehousing; Retail Trade; Construction; Utilities; Educational Services; Management of Companies & Support Services; Finance & Insurance; Public Administration; Accommodation & Food Services; Health Care & Social Assistance; Professional, Scientific & Technical Services; and Information.

The four industries reporting contraction in September are: Mining; Arts, Entertainment & Recreation; Real Estate, Rental & Leasing; and Other Services.

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