U.S. service companies, which employ nearly 90 per cent of the work force, grew in September at the fastest pace since March. The growth was driven by sharp increases in current and future sales. The Institute for Supply Management said its index of nonmanufacturing activity rose to 55.1, up from 53.7 in August. Any reading above 50 indicates expansion. The report measures growth in a broad range of businesses from retail and construction companies to health care and financial services firms.
