UK shows 'first signs' of recovery as economy grows 0.4% in February

1.6% uptick in construction sector

clock • 2 min read

The UK economy returned to growth in February, expanding by an estimated 0.4% even as nationwide lockdowns remained in place, although GDP output remained 7.8% below a year earlier, according to the latest figures.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that the service sector grew by 0.2% in February 2021, as wholesale and retail trade sales "picked up a little" but said that, overall, consumer-facing services industries remain "well below" pre-pandemic (February 2020) levels. However, the production sector grew by 1% in February, as manufacturing picked up by 1.3% following a contraction in January. The ONS said that both new work and repair & maintenance resulted in a 1.6% uptick in the construction sector in February. Robert Alster, CIO at investment management firm Close Broth...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

Reeves defends yearly Budget to avoid 'constant chopping and changing'

Reeves defends yearly Budget to avoid 'constant chopping and changing'

Treasury Committee scrutinises chancellor on Spring Statement

Isabel Baxter
clock 02 April 2025 • 3 min read
Five key takeaways from the Spring Statement 2025

Five key takeaways from the Spring Statement 2025

OBR growth, ISA reforms and defence

Sorin Dojan
clock 27 March 2025 • 4 min read
Bank of England halts interest rate cuts amid ongoing inflation

Bank of England halts interest rate cuts amid ongoing inflation

As priced in by markets

Sorin Dojan
clock 20 March 2025 • 2 min read