UK services growth: head offices
UK services growth: head offices stood at 0.1% in Jul 2026, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). It is one of the indicators in the Monthly GDP and output table (Value · Monthly), with a complete series running from Jan 1998 to Jul 2026. The complete series with an interactive chart, free to download.
This indicator in the Monthly GDP and output table
| Indicator | 07-2026 | 06-2026 | 05-2026 | 04-2026 | 03-2026 | 02-2026 | 01-2026 | 12-2025 | 11-2025 | 10-2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Services output, growth on a year earlier | |||||||||||
| 70 — Head offices and management consultancy | 0.1 | 0.3 | 0.9 | 3.8 | 7.2 | 9.4 | 8.9 | 6.2 | 3.6 | 3.7 | |
| 71 — Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing | -0.5 | -9.3 | -3.6 | -4.4 | -5.5 | 1 | -5.2 | -6.8 | -4.3 | -2.9 |
Understanding UK services growth: head offices
Head offices and management consultancy measure the monthly volume growth in real gross value added across the United Kingdom generated by central administrative offices, holding companies, and strategic business advisory firms. This classification covers the operational management provided by corporate headquarters alongside external strategic, financial, and organisational consulting services, excluding specialised engineering and advertising consultancies. Deflated management fees, corporate holding dividends, and advisory billings constitute the primary data sources.
Interpreting this indicator requires recognising that corporate restructuring and strategic overhaul projects can cause sharp, non-recurring shifts in monthly output. Year-on-year comparisons provide a clearer view of medium-term corporate demand, avoiding the noise of lumpy consulting contract completions. Revisions are common as large enterprises adjust their provisional administrative cost apportionments. Analysts often compare this metric with manufacturing and production output to determine how corporate headquarters spending responds to industrial cycles.
Frequently asked questions
- Does this series include engineering consultancy?
- No, architectural and engineering activities are classified under a separate technical testing category.
- Why can management consultancy output be volatile?
- The completion or commencement of large corporate restructuring contracts can cause sudden shifts in billable turnover.
- How are holding company activities measured in national accounts?
- Output is estimated based on the administrative services provided by head offices to their subsidiary units.