UK mid-market business growth hits 22-month high in September, NatWest says

• NatWest's tracker showed UK mid-market business activity grew at its fastest pace in 22 months in September 2026.
• The activity index rose to 56.2 from 52.4 in August, remaining above the 50 growth threshold for a third consecutive month.
• Services led the expansion with an index reading of 57.0; manufacturing registered 52.2.
• The SME activity index improved to 49.8 from 47.8, signaling near-stabilization but remaining below the growth threshold.
• Mid-market hiring reached its strongest pace in 22 months, though rising fuel and wage costs threatened the recovery.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Natwest Group plc published the original content used to generate this news brief on October 20, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.