UK economy grows 0.4% in second quarter as expansion slows
UK gross domestic product expanded by 0.4% in the second quarter of 2026, easing from 0.6% in the first quarter, with services and construction contributing to growth.
In short
- UK gross domestic product expanded by 0.4% in the second quarter of 2026, easing from 0.6% in the first quarter, with services and construction contributing to growth.
The United Kingdom's economy grew by 0.4% in the three months to June 2026, slowing from 0.6% in the first quarter, according to figures released by the Office for National Statistics on Thursday, August 13.
Services output rose by 0.5% and construction increased by 0.3%, while production was flat. Gross domestic product increased by 0.3% in June after showing no growth in May. The result for the quarter matched economists' expectations.
The statistics agency said some businesses linked stronger June turnover to the FIFA World Cup, particularly in hospitality, advertising, publishing and alcohol-related industries. Hot weather also helped parts of retail, accommodation, manufacturing and recreation, although it disrupted construction and education.
Output was estimated to be 1.2% higher than a year earlier. Real GDP per person rose by 0.4% during the quarter and was 1% above its level in the same period of 2025. Analysts nevertheless cautioned that higher energy costs and pressure on household incomes could weaken growth later in the year.
