Article updated: 2/5/2013 9:52 AM

U.S. service firms grew more slowly in January

Buy this photo Buy this photo
Gallery Image

The report measures growth in industries that cover 90 percent of the work force, including retail, construction, health care and financial services.

File photo

About this Article

Growth at U.S. service companies slowed slightly in January behind weaker new orders and business activity. But hiring improved, a bright sign for the economy. The Institute for Supply Management says its index of non-manufacturing activity dipped to 55.2 in January. That's down from 55.7 in December, which was the highest level in nearly a year. Any reading above 50 indicates expansion.