UK economy grew 0.7% in third quarter, ONS estimates

The UK economy grew by an estimated 0.7% in July to September 2026, up from 0.5% in the previous quarter, according to Office for National Statistics figures published on 12 November.

The result matched the forecast in a Reuters poll of economists. Reuters reported that it was the strongest calendar-quarter expansion since the first quarter of 2024. That comparison concerns a three-month period: the new release reports on activity earlier this year, rather than growth taking place on its publication date.

Business services drive the increase

Services output rose 0.9%, with business-facing activities leading growth. Computer programming, consultancy and related activities increased 4.4%. The ONS bulletin says many businesses reporting the largest turnover increases were involved in artificial intelligence and cloud computing. However, it cautions that its data collection cannot quantify the exact impact of those activities.

The separately published monthly bulletin shows how uneven the wider picture was. Production grew 0.1% across the three months to September, while construction fell 0.7%. An increase in the overall economy therefore accompanied a decline in one of its major sectors.

September’s figures show a different snapshot

GDP rose 0.2% in September alone, following no growth in August and a 0.4% increase in July. The monthly release revised August down from the previously reported 0.1% rise. These monthly changes compare consecutive months, whereas the headline quarterly figure compares July–September with April–June.

There was also a contrasting monthly result within technology services. Computer programming, consultancy and related activities fell 1.9% in September, despite the industry’s gain over the three months. The ONS identifies that September fall as the largest negative industry contribution to monthly GDP. The quarterly and monthly figures describe different time windows, so the stronger quarterly result does not mean every month or industry expanded.

These are first estimates and can be revised as more information becomes available. The ONS lists 22 December 2026 for the next quarterly release.

Cover: AI-generated illustration of an imagined British streetscape.