Britain’s economy expanded at a faster pace than initially estimated in the second quarter of 2026, according to revised data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The revised figures show gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.5 percent between April and June, up from the earlier estimate of 0.4 percent. This adjustment reinforces the position of the UK as the fastest-growing economy within the Group of Seven (G7) nations during the first half of the year.

The upward revision was primarily driven by stronger growth in the services sector, which accounts for approximately 80 percent of the UK’s GDP. This performance was bolstered by factors such as favorable weather conditions and increased activity related to the World Cup, which helped offset the economic uncertainties caused by the conflict involving Iran in the Middle East.

When compared to the end of 2024, the ONS now estimates that the UK economy is 2 percent larger, a slight increase from the previous assessment of 1.9 percent. However, revisions to historical data indicate that overall economic growth in 2025 was slightly lower than initially recorded, with output rising by 1.2 percent instead of the earlier figure of 1.3 percent.

GDP per capita, a measure often used to approximate living standards, rose by 1 percent in the second quarter following a 0.8 percent decline in the previous quarter. This suggests some recovery in average income levels despite recent challenges.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey, welcomed the revised data on social media, framing stronger growth as a key factor in addressing the cost of living and business expenses. He emphasized the importance of sustained economic growth for the country’s broader financial stability.

Economic analysts noted that the revisions provide further evidence of the UK economy’s resilience in the face of external shocks. Martin Beck, chief economist at WPI Strategy, said the updated figures highlighted how the economy managed to weather pressures from the Middle East conflict during the spring and early summer.

Earlier this year, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) also adjusted its UK growth forecast upward, now predicting the economy will expand by 1.1 percent in 2026, slightly higher than its previous forecast of 0.9 percent. Overall, these revisions and forecasts underline a cautiously optimistic outlook for the UK economy amid ongoing global uncertainties.