The latest KPMG Global Business Outlook Survey shows that optimism at companies around the world has held steady since the last survey in February. Both manufacturers and service providers remain confident of rising activity during the next twelve months, supporting growth of revenues and profits. Positive sentiment regarding employment has increased, but inflation expectations have also risen modestly. Irish service sector companies expect revenues, new business and job creation will all improve over the next 12 months. KPMG says sentiment on  business activity in the service sector is well ahead of the EU and global average, according to a survey produced by research firm Markit Economics.