The services sector output hit a fresh all-time high in May as most businesses reopened after the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Institute for Supply Management.
- The Services PMI grew 1.3 percentage points to 64% in May from 62.7% in April.
- The latest reading surpassed the previous record high of 63.7% recorded in March, after growing for 12 straight months.
- All 18 industries recorded growth indicating a strong expansion after firms reopened and boosted production capacity.
- Respondents attributed the growth to stimulus money, increased vaccinations, and eased lockdown restrictions.
- Several firms said they started to shift back to working in the corporate office on a limited basis.
- ISM Chair Anthony Nieves noted that downside risks remain such as capacity constraints, material shortages, weather-related delays, and challenges in logistics and employment.
- The Supplier Deliveries index climbed 4.3 percentage points to 70.4% from April’s 66.1%. A reading above 50% indicates slower deliveries.
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