Economic activity in the US nonmanufacturing sector increased in April at a faster pace than March. The Institute for Supply Management’s nonmanufacturing composite index rose to a reading of 55.7 from March’s reading of 54.5.

Readings above 50 indicates expansion in the sector.

The employment portion of the index grew in April for the second consecutive month. The index rose 2.7 percentage points to 53.0% from the March reading of 50.3%. February’s reading of 47.7% was the first contraction after 23 consecutive months of growth and the first time the employment index had contracted since February 2014.

Ten industries reported increased employment in April, and five industries reported decreased employment.

The 10 industries reporting an increase in employment in April, listed in order, are:

1. Management of companies and support services
2. Arts, entertainment and recreation
3. Healthcare and social assistance
4. Wholesale trade
5. Information
6. Accommodation and food services
7. Construction
8. Utilities
9. Public administration
10. Professional, scientific and technical services