The AIB Ireland Services PMI declined to 54.1 in September 2026 from August’s eight-month high of 55.4, marking the lowest reading since May. It marked an easing in services-sector growth for the first time since April and slipped below the long-run average. However, demand strengthened, supported by broad-based growth across sectors for the second month running, with technology, media & telecom posting the fastest expansion. New business growth accelerated to a 10-month high, reflecting new clients and greater marketing efforts, though foreign sales rose only marginally. Employment increased slightly, despite outstanding work continuing to rise. On the price front, input cost inflation accelerated to its highest level since May, due to higher fuel and energy costs, while selling prices rose at the fastest pace in five months. Lastly, business sentiment improved to its highest level since February 2025, linked to planned business investments, new contracts, and marketing efforts.