fOODSERVICE IN IRELAND

The Irish Foodservice Market has grown by over 50% since 1997. The market value is now estimated to be IR£1.1billion at caterer’s purchase prices.

A number of factors have contributed to this growth in recent years, related to demographic and lifestyle changes and greater economic prosperity. Key factors include the buoyant Irish economy coupled with increased consumer spending. The profound changes in household structures with increased numbers of one and two person households and more women working outside of the home have also contributed to this growth.

Ireland has the youngest population in Europe with 40% under the age of 25. The tourist industry has experienced a 150% increase in visitor numbers since 1988. Increased domestic travel caused in part by greater commuting times and distances but also by greater leisure and business related travel has fuelled development of the fast growing “food to go” segment of the market.

Foodservice is a very different mar...