May’s UK construction PMI dropped below expectations, signaling a sharper contraction in the sector amid weak demand.
The UK construction Purchasing Managers’ Index fell to 38.2 in May, below the 40.2 forecast and down from April’s 39.7. The decline reflects worsening conditions in the sector, driven by reduced new orders and project delays.
Analysts had anticipated a modest improvement, but the reading marked the third consecutive month of contraction. The prior month’s figure of 39.7 had already indicated a slowdown, with May’s data suggesting no near-term rebound.
Markets showed limited reaction, as focus remains on broader economic indicators and central bank policy signals.