Bank of Ireland data shows sharp growth in online marketplace spending, digital services and alternative travel destinations.
Irish consumers are becoming increasingly strategic in how they spend their money, balancing a search for value with continued spending on experiences and digital services, according to Bank of Ireland‘s latest Spending Pulse analysis for August.
The data points to a growing focus on cost-effective shopping options, with spending at discount stores rising by 44% year-on-year.
“Consumers are investing more in digital services, subscriptions, apps and electronic devices, contributing to strong growth in digital goods spending”
Expenditure at charity and vintage stores increased by 10%, while spending on clothes rental services grew by 17% compared with August 2025.
Digital spending trends
Online shopping also recorded significant growth. Spending on online marketplaces such as Amazon rose by 122% year-on-year, underlining the increasing appeal of digital platforms as consumers look for convenience and competitive pricing.
Entertainment and leisure spending remained strong during the month. Cinema spending surged by 55% compared with August last year, while restaurant spending increased by 5%. Spending on health and beauty spa services also rose by 8%.
With households preparing for the new academic year and continuing to embrace new technologies, digital spending recorded strong gains across several categories. Spending on apps increased by 46%, while expenditure on digital goods, including subscriptions and cloud storage services, rose by 19%. Spending on electrical goods was up 23%.
The continued shift towards electric vehicle adoption was also reflected in consumer spending patterns. Spending on public EV charging increased by 49% compared with August 2025.
Owen Clifford, head of Retail Sector at Bank of Ireland, said: “As students prepare for the new academic year, consumers are investing more in digital services, subscriptions, apps and electronic devices, contributing to strong growth in digital goods spending.
“The data highlights that Irish consumers are adaptable. Many are seeking value while also prioritising experiences and investing in digital services that support work, education and everyday life.”
The Spending Pulse analysis also highlighted changing travel preferences among Irish holidaymakers.
Traditional overseas destinations recorded weaker spending patterns compared with August last year. Spending in Turkey fell by 1%, Spain declined by 2% and France dropped by 3%, while spending in Portugal remained broadly stable, increasing by 0.5%.
At the same time, several alternative destinations saw significant growth. Spending in Albania increased by 79%, Norway by 39% and Malta by 16%, suggesting Irish travellers are continuing to diversify their holiday choices.
Long-haul travel spending also softened during the month. Compared with August 2025, spending in the United Arab Emirates fell by 38%, while spend in New Zealand declined by 40%. Australia was down 22%, Japan fell by 8% and spending in the United States decreased by 7%.
The figures suggest that while Irish consumers remain willing to spend on travel, entertainment and lifestyle experiences, many are carefully evaluating where they can achieve the best value, both at home and abroad.
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