71% of Irish food businesses focusing on revenue growth according to 2025 Love Irish Food and Bank of Ireland food and beverage industry barometer.
More than 70% of Irish food and drink businesses remain confident they can sustain revenue growth despite ongoing economic challenges, according to the 2025 Food & Beverage Industry Barometer released today (12 May 2025) by Love Irish Food and Bank of Ireland.
The annual survey, which polled 120 Irish food producers in March, reveals that 66% of businesses plan to invest in enhancing operations, while 61% are prioritising brand building initiatives.
“Irish food producers are also keenly aware of the environmental benefits to their own bottom line, and with sustainability practices now embedded in 95% of businesses surveyed it bodes well for long-term growth for the sector”
Wage inflation and economic volatility were identified among the top threats facing the sector.
Keeping the food business sustainable
This year’s Barometer captures insights from a diverse mix of Irish food and beverage businesses, from household brand names to high-growth SMEs focused on local markets.
Despite operating at varying scales, these businesses share common strategies in responding to industry challenges, particularly those related to cost pressures and labour availability.
The survey highlighted a significant 8% annual rise in companies developing domestic growth strategies, with new customer acquisition and innovation remaining primary objectives.
Many businesses are also concerned about shifting market dynamics following the recent imposition of 10% tariffs on food and beverage exports by the US Government.
“What the 2025 Barometer shows is not a sector in retreat, but one pivoting strategically. Brands are investing where it counts – in operations, in identity, in people and in reconnecting with Irish consumers,” said Conor Kilduff, Executive Director of Love Irish Food.
Lucy Ryan, Head of Food & Beverage Sector at Bank of Ireland, added: “In my daily interactions across the Irish food and beverage sector I am struck by how resilient businesses are.
“Industry leaders are attuned to shifts in market dynamics, agile in their operations, and constantly innovating to ensure they provide customers with a best-in-class product. Irish food producers are also keenly aware of the environmental benefits to their own bottom line, and with sustainability practices now embedded in 95% of businesses surveyed it bodes well for long-term growth for the sector.”
The survey was carried out on 24 and 25 March 2025 by Bank of Ireland and Love Irish Food, among 120 Irish food SMEs.
Image at top: Conor Kilduff, Executive Director, Love Irish Food; Stephen McCormack, managing director, McCormack Family Farms; and Lucy Ryan, Head of Food & Beverage Sector, Bank of Ireland
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