66% of Irish food businesses plan to invest in enhancing operations
The 2025 Food and Beverage Industry Barometer, conducted by Love Irish Food and Bank of Ireland, has recently been published with some interesting key findings.
Based on a March 2025 survey of 120 Irish food producers, the survey captures the priorities of a diverse mix of Irish food and drink businesses, ranging from household brand names to high-growth SMEs focused on local markets.
(L-R) Conor Kilduff, executive director, Love Irish Food with Stephen McCormack, managing director, McCormack Family Farms and Lucy Ryan, head of food & beverage sector, Bank of Ireland.
“What the 2025 Barometer shows is not a sector in retreat, but one pivoting strategically with brands investing in operations, identity, people, and reconnecting with Irish consumers,” Conor Kilduff, executive director at Love Irish Food, said.
The survey revealed that over 70% of Irish food and drink businesses remain confident they can sustain their revenue growth.
While operating at varying scales, food and beverage businesses remain aligned in their response to current challenges, with 61% intent on building a stronger brand presence.
Respondents also shared their concerns in trying to overcome common industry challenges linked to cost pressures and labour availability (notably accommodation and skills gaps), as well as shifting market dynamics following the imposition by the US Government of 10% tariffs on food and beverage exports.
Two-thirds of food and beverage businesses are now focused on streamlining and enhancing their operational performance, with their sights fixed on further developing their operations in the Irish market.
The 2025 survey showcased an 8% annual rise in companies developing a domestic growth strategy, with new customer acquisition and innovation remaining primary goals.
“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,” Lucy Ryan, head of food and beverage sector at Bank of Ireland, said.
She added: “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 main takeaways from the survey are as follows:
- 71% of Irish food businesses are focusing on revenue growth
- 66% plan to invest in enhancing operations; 61% in brand building
- wage inflation and economic volatility named among the top threats
- 2025 barometer presents a realistic yet resilient view of the industry
