Irish Foodservice Market Insights Report 2024 PDF Free Download
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Table of Contents
Introduction | 3
•A Reality Reset for the Industry
•Inputs and Expectations for Growth
Executive Summary | 6
•Infographic
•Total IOI Foodservice Industry
•Timeseries of IOI Foodservice
•Sector Growth/Decline
•Menu Price Inflation
•Impact of Tourism
•Outlook for 2025
•Current Growth vs. Previous
Expectations
•Overall Summary
•Industry Imperatives
Detailed Size and
Segmentation Data | 19
•Commercial and Institutional Channels
•Irish Foodservice Snapshot: IOI
•Irish Foodservice Snapshot: ROI
•Irish Foodservice Snapshot: NI
•Food and Beverage Revenue Split
•Route to Market
•Product Category Segmentation
•Foodservice Products by Value
•Summary of On-Premise Trends
•Forecasts and Growth Outlook for 2025
Additional Channel
Information | 34
•Commercial Sector Insights
•Institutional Sector Insights
Appendix with Additional
Information | 51
Methodology | 62
•Glossary of Terms
•Market Modeling Approach
•About Technomic
2
Section One
Introduction and Overview
2024
A Reality Reset for the Industry
Throughout the last several years, the foodservice
industry across the island of Ireland has proven to
be resilient, recovering from the depths of the
COVID-19 pandemic with strong consumer
demand and a robust economic backdrop. Moving
into 2024, the expectation was that the pent-up
demand was largely spent and that growth would
return to a more “normal” pre-pandemic trajectory.
As shown throughout this report, consumer
spending within foodservice has indeed slowed
during the course of 2024. Higher menu prices,
while showing deceleration from extremes in 2022
and 2023, remain elevated, and consumer visits
and footfall have been impacted by these higher
prices. Despite this, growth throughout the island
of Ireland (including both the Republic of Ireland
and Northern Ireland) increased 5.2% in value,
and overall industry turnover surpassed €9.8
billion.
Economically, ROI is expected to outperform most
of the European Union, while Northern Ireland is
expected to see only modest economic growth. As
such, expectations for consumer spending moving
forward remain in line or slightly above the
experiences of 2024. However, the key challenges
are not so much with the consumer as with the
operator; what has become more difficult is the
profitability of the foodservice operator, particularly
the independent operator. While food costs have
decelerated significantly (and in some cases have
declined), the labour situation remains extremely
challenging, largely from a cost situation. In fact,
going forward, much of the price increase and
menu inflation that will likely be seen in 2025 will
be the result largely of wage inflation and not
food/beverage cost increases.
Continued uncertainties globally, including conflict
in the Middle East and Ukraine, still have the
ability to impact prices and supply chains for the
Irish industry. These elevated prices—for food,
labour, and other inputs—will likely remain higher
than historic norms, and this requires a “resetting”
of expectations for what the reality of the industry
will be going forward.
For more than a decade, Bord Bia has been at the
forefront of providing frequent, relevant insights to
the foodservice industry to help suppliers,
distributors and operators make fact-based
decisions and navigate often difficult times. By
providing data-led research and thought
leadership, Bord Bia has cemented its position as
a trusted advisor to the food industry. For this end-
of-year 2024 research, Bord Bia has again
partnered with industry researcher Technomic to
develop insights and forecasts.
Building on its industry forecasts issued in late
2023, Bord Bia and Technomic have revisited the
situation across all foodservice sectors and have
updated and revised the performance for the
industry in 2024, as well as expectations for 2025.
Note that while these figures are shown as full-
year 2024 results, they presume to forecast the
last two months of the year based on industry
input. Looking back at 2023 results, some
revisions to size and growth estimates have been
made based on the current research. As always,
this report also explores and updates growth rate
dynamics and forecasts for next year.
4
2024
-2025
Consideration Factor
Expectations built into model
Variables that can impact
Economic
performance
Ongoing economic growth for ROI; slightly more sluggish
growth expected in NI (the European Commission forecasts
Irish real GDP growing 1.2% in 2024 and 3.6% in 2025)
Continued tight employment through 2025. With low
unemployment currently, overall labour forecasts show only
steady growth in the jobs market.
Unemployment rate is
expected to stay in the 4.0%
-4.5% range
Despite heavy industry lobbying, no additional change to the
hospitality VAT rate, which returned to 13.5% in ROI during
2023, from the previous reduced rate of 9%
Moderating inflation, continuing a trend that has started in
2023. Overall menu price inflation is estimated to be 6
-7% in
2024 and expected to be 3%
-5% in 2025
Speed of economic growth (i.e., quicker or slower than
forecasted)
Labour
issues and availability throughout foodservice,
including a stronger or weaker return of foreign workers to the
island of Ireland
Interest rates and inflation, spurred by global issues, that
remain elevated and discourage both consumer and business
spending and investment
Accommodation pricing and availability is a significant
variable; housing policies have a major impact on
labour
availability, particularly in urban markets in ROI
Large
-
scale conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East remain a
destabilising
economic challenge
Tourism
Continued return of tourism, particularly from North American
visitors, but weaker
-than-average demand from both British
and European tourists
Some slowdown in inbound tourism in summer 2024 due to
weather issues. Outbound tourism was up, leading more Irish
out of country
Extreme weather events are difficult to forecast and are not
included in current expectations
Some 10%
-15% of accommodation bedrooms still taken by
government contracts, although much of this stock may be
released throughout 2025
Currency exchange rates that fluctuate can make Ireland
more or less attractive to visitors from different parts of the
world
Fuel prices have an impact on travel affordability;
transportation suppliers here may see additional disruption or
higher costs that can impact consumer travel plans
A worsening of the situation in Ukraine and/or the Middle East
could have a negative impact on tourism
Return to Work
A ceiling of sorts seems to have been reached regarding
return to white
-
collar office activities. The general assumption
is that office attendance is still around 60%
-70% of pre-
pandemic levels, as hybrid work remains in effect for many
workplaces
With this, continued change in weekday dynamics, particularly
for city centers where Mondays and Fridays are seeing below-
average traffic (and suburban areas are alternatively
benefitting)
Slower or faster return to work, particularly at large
employers, that can have a disproportionate impact on
sectors such as business dining
Note that there does appear to be a renewed push to get
more workers back to the office by many businesses
While much of the economic volatility of the past
three years has dampened, there are still a
number of variables that have an impact on
expectations and forecasts for industry growth in
2025. Ireland appears to be poised for above-
average growth (in comparison to the U.K. and
other EU countries) and unemployment remains
low. Inflation, which has been a challenge for not
only foodservice, but the broader economy,
appears to be slowing, allowing slightly more
price certainty among operators. Despite all of
this, consumer behaviour relative to foodservice
has softened in 2024; however, with slightly
better expectations for next year, the forecast for
the industry should follow suit.
Throughout this report, there are a number of
assumptions that are inherent in both 2024
current figures and forecasts for 2025. There are
also somewhat different assumptions for ROI and
Northern Ireland, although the general direction
should be considered similar for both
geographies. The major difference between the
two tends to be that the public sector weighs
heavier in Northern Ireland than it does in the
Republic of Ireland.
The assumptions used to generate growth
estimates for 2024 and 2025 are shown in the
summary table to the right and related to
economic performance, tourism and the return to
work.
Inputs and Expectations for Growth Forecasts
5
Section Two
Executive Summary
Summary of Total IOI Foodservice Industry
The Value of Consumer and Operator Spend in 2024
The value of the Irish foodservice industry for 2024 is estimated to be
€9.85 billion in terms of consumer expenditure and €3.62 billion in terms
of operator purchases. This continues to build upon and surpass the
highest levels seen within the industry over the past 10 years.
Figures shown include both the value of the Republic of Ireland and the
converted value (from sterling to euro) of the Northern Ireland foodservice
market. Importantly, figures in this report are intended to exclude alcohol
sales.
Note that when this report defines “consumer spending,” the term refers to
actual consumer spending by diners within all foodservice channels.
In noncommercial channels, such as education or healthcare, a retail
sales equivalent value is calculated so that these channels can be directly
compared to commercial restaurant sales.
Operator purchases represent the value of distributors’ sales to operators,
including distributors’ margins. These purchase values are derived at the
channel level by using food cost ratios, which vary by foodservice
channel. As will be shown, operator purchases are also the value by
which route-to-market estimates are drawn.
On an overall basis, operator purchases represent approximately 37% of
the value of all consumer expenditures in the IOI foodservice industry
(blended among all operator segments.) This percentage has crept up
over the past several years, reflecting ongoing increases in cost and
historically tight margins among foodservice operators.
€8,663
€2,953
€4,529
€1,601
€5,155
€1,799
€8,313
€2,956
€9,370
€3,402
€9,854
€3,616
Consumer
Spend Operator
Purchases
FOODSERVICE INDUSTRY TOTAL IOI TIMESERIES
€ BILLION
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 (P)
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated; (P)=preliminary
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 8
Summary Timeseries of IOI Foodservice
Industry Size and Growth, 2019
€6,425
€3,337
€3,747
€6,172
€7,014 €7,343
€2,238
€1,192 €1,408
€2,141 €2,357 €2,511
4.6%
-47.7%
13.8%
61.3%
12.7% 5.2%
-50.0%
-30.0%
-10.0%
10.0%
30.0%
50.0%
70.0%
€0
€1,000
€2,000
€3,000
€4,000
€5,000
€6,000
€7,000
€8,000
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 (P)
IRELAND FOODSERVICE
2019-2024
ROI FS NI FS IOI Growth
Note: The values for Northern Ireland have been converted to euro based on average conversion rates for each year; Figures for previous years have in
some instances been updated; (P)=preliminary
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 9
Summary of Sector Growth/Decline
2019-2024
Looking back over the past six years, it is clear that the foodservice industry
across Ireland has seen a great deal of disruption and recovery. However, the
trend line is clear. Since 2020, the industry has increased in value (measured in
consumer spending) every year since then.
An important caveat to this is that this measures a level of spending that includes
annual increases in menu prices to the consumer. The following page highlights
those figures, but it’s clear that these higher prices have had an impact on the
value of the industry.
While the industry fully recovered last year and is now 14% higher in value than
it was in 2019, much of this increase has come about due to inflation.
The chart to the right displays the time series of the growth (as measured by
consumer spending) within each operator sector (combining both ROI and NI
turnover). It also shows the recovery index for each sector relative to its 2019
pre-pandemic value.
•Commercial foodservice grew 4.2% in 2024 and sits at a recovery level of
114 (meaning it is 14% higher than 2019). While every sector has fully
recovered, hotels and pubs remain at the lowest level of recovery, while the
limited-service and other commercial (which includes recreational venues)
sectors are the highest.
•Institutional foodservice has largely recovered. Overall growth of 15.3%
brings the recovery index to 109. Business feeders (primarily white-collar
offices) remain the lagging sector that have not yet reached pre-pandemic
value. Note that this value also includes strong growth in education, as
driven by the government’s hot meal scheme.
Sector
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
2024 (P)
Index of
2024
Recovery
(2019=100)
Limited Service
5.0% -33.2% 16.0% 34.1% 10.4% 4.7% 120
Quick Service 4.8% -33.7% 16.9% 34.5% 11.1% 4.5% 121
Fast Casual 5.6% -47.7% 15.5% 63.8% 10.3% 5.6% 115
Food to Go 5.8% -25.2% 12.2% 23.7% 7.3% 5.0% 117
Full Service
4.7% -56.0% 22.2% 77.0% 16.1% 6.0% 117
Pubs
2.2% -64.6% 2.7% 156.2% 13.9% 3.0% 109
Coffee Shops/
Cafes
5.8% -32.0% 20.2% 22.2% 8.9% 5.2% 114
Hotels
6.1% -57.3% 13.5% 83.2% 15.5% 1.9% 105
Other Commercial
6.3% -69.3% 40.1% 125.1% 15.7% 7.4% 120
Total Commercial
4.7% -48.1% 15.6% 62.2% 12.8% 4.2% 114
Business &
Industry
4.5% -62.4% -18.1% 121.4% 18.9% 10.0% 89
Healthcare
2.5% -9.9% 2.0% 8.4% 6.1% 5.3% 111
Education
3.2% -57.8% 26.1% 84.1% 8.7% 43.2% 152
All Other
3.1% -4.2% 4.8% 3.7% 4.9% 4.6% 114
Total Institutional
3.4% -44.0% -0.8% 51.9% 11.6% 15.3% 109
Total IOI
Foodservice
4.6% -47.7% 13.8% 61.3% 12.7% 5.2% 114
Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated;
(P)=preliminary
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 10
1.5% 1.6% 1.4% 1.4% 2.1%
5.0%
2.4%
3.9% 4.9%
7.4% 7.0%
4.0%
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
YEAR-OVER-YEAR MENU PRICE INFLATION
CONSUMER SPENDING (RETAIL SALES)
100
105
110
115
120
125
130
Jan
2020 Jan
2021 Jan
2022 Jan
2023 Jan
2024
ROI CONSUMER PRICE INDICES
CUMULATIVE CHANGE
Summary of Menu Price Inflation
Inflation Remains Elevated vs.
Historic Norms
In looking at the current CSO data for menu
inflation in restaurants, cafes, fast food and
take-away, the current trend indicates that
prices are up 7% year to date (through
September). The assumption is that this will
fall slightly through the end of the year and
finish around 6.3%-6.5%. Inflation has been
historically high through much of 2023 and
into 2024, which has impacted consumer
visits and overall footfall.
The historic average from 2010 to 2022 was
2.7%; price increases are not expected to fall
to this level through the end of 2025.
Cumulative Effect of Menu
Prices
While prices are starting to decelerate, it’s
important to remember that these increases
are cumulative and build upon previous
increases. When looking at overall menu
prices in aggregative through September
2024, restaurant menu prices are up more
than 24% relative to where they were in
January 2020.
Sept 2024
Restaurant Prices
+24.3%
Eight-year average=2.7%
Note: Data reflects the Republic of Ireland only; (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast
Source: CSO with analysis and forecast by Technomic 11
8.2
9.2
7.3
7.4
7.9
7.8
7.3
8.7
9.9
7.3
8.4
6.2
6.0
6.4
7.2
7.3
8.1
8.7
YTD Average
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
July
Aug
AVERAGE LENGTH OF STAY, OVERNIGHT VISITORS TO ROI
2023 VS. 2024
2023
2024
Summary of the Impact of Tourism to
Ireland in 2024
Tourism is a critical driver for foodservice
•For much of the commercial foodservice industry in Ireland (both ROI and
NI), a key driver for the health and success of the business is inbound
tourism. Particularly on the west coast of Ireland, but also in key urban areas
such as Dublin, Cork and Galway, tourists are a key constituent driving
restaurant and hospitality sales.
•In 2024, there were mixed results from overseas visitors coming into Ireland,
with the net effect that overall spending was relatively dampened. This in turn
caused only modest growth in areas such as hotel foodservice, pubs and
various type of restaurants, particularly those in tourism-focused areas that
rely on visitors.
Tourism Results for 2024
According to the CSO, overall visits to Ireland from overseas travelers are up by
11% in 2024, however, the data also shows that per-visit stays are shorter (on
average, by nearly one day per person) and that people are spending less
money per visit. Importantly, the results for the crucial summer months show that
the number of visitors only grew by low single digits relative to last year; coupled
with a lower per visit stay average, these results have not had the impact many
had hoped going into the year, and many tourism-led foodservice operators
report relative soft figures for the year.
Outlook
There is some concern in the travel and hospitality sectors that, while there
remains strong demand to visit Ireland, there will structural challenges that may
limit growth. One of the primary issues are flight caps at Dublin Airport, the
current situation limits the number of passengers to 32 million per year. As the
tourism industry rebounded after COVID-19, demand grew and in 2024 this cap
has been reached. Without some additional action, there is concern that future
growth will be hampered.
Through August 2024:
4.67M visitors
Through August 2023:
4.21M visitors
+ 11%
Note: Data reflects the Republic of Ireland only
Source: CSO with analysis and forecast by Technomic 12
Summary of Outlook for 2025
Foodservice Expected to See Modest Growth Next Year
In looking ahead to 2025, there was mixed response relative to industry
expectations. Most noted that the economic situation remains relatively strong,
and while consumers have moderated visits throughout the year there should be
expectations for similar or slightly better conditions for next year. The industry
remains challenged—not from a consumer perspective but rather from an
operating cost and margin perspective—and this is the concern voiced by many.
As such, the outlook for 2025 shows a slightly slower growth pattern across most
sectors. As noted on the previous page, the outlook for menu prices indicates
that inflation should continue to moderate (although prices are not expected to
go down, only increase at a much lower rate). This is turn leads to some
expectation that, with similar growth in value to this year, traffic and footfall may
actually see some slight increases relative to 2024. Overall inflation expectations
are in the 3.5%-4.5% range, indicating that there may be a small amount of “real”
growth underlying the increase in value.
Still, the growth expectation is largely in line with longer-term historical averages
for the Irish foodservice industry. Outside of Ireland, the global foodservice
industry has returned to being a fairly mature, slower growth industry, mirroring
many of the traits that existed before 2020 and the global pandemic. All industry
participants—suppliers, distributors and operators—will find achieving significant
organic growth to be harder to come by in a market that has fully recovered and
has returned to maturity.
2025 Growth Forecast
IOI
2025 ROI
Forecasted
Growth
2025 NI
Forecasted
Growth (in
Euros)
2025 Total
IOI
Forecasted
Growth*
Index of
Recovery
(2019=100)
Limited Service 4.7% 4.3% 4.6% 126
Quick Service 4.7% 4.2% 4.5% 127
Fast Casual 5.7% 5.1% 5.6% 122
Food to Go 4.6% 4.5% 4.5% 122
Full Service 5.4% 5.0% 5.3% 123
Pubs 2.3% 3.7% 2.7% 112
Coffee Shops/Cafes 5.2% 5.0% 5.2% 120
Hotels 1.9% 4.0% 2.5% 107
Other Commercial 8.1% 6.6% 7.8% 130
Total Commercial 4.1% 4.4% 4.2% 119
Business & Industry 3.9% 3.9% 3.9% 93
Healthcare 4.6% 4.5% 4.6% 116
Education 20.1% 4.6% 16.1% 177
All Other 3.5% 3.3% 3.4% 118
Total Institutional 8.4% 4.3% 7.3% 116
Total Foodservice 4.5% 4.4% 4.5% 119
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 13
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
2024 Growth
November
2023
Forecast
Current as of
November
2024
Limited Service
4.9% 4.3%
Quick Service 4.8% 4.2%
Fast Casual 5.4% 5.1%
Food to Go 5.0% 4.7%
Full Service
5.3% 5.5%
Pubs
4.6% 2.0%
Coffee Shops/Cafes
5.4% 4.7%
Hotels
5.8% 0.1%
Other Commercial
5.6% 7.1%
Total Commercial
5.1% 3.5%
Business & Industry
9.7% 9.9%
Healthcare
4.8% 4.7%
Education
4.5% 62.4%
All Other
4.7% 4.5%
Total Institutional
6.7% 18.4%
Total Foodservice
5.2% 4.7%
NORTHERN IRELAND*
2024 Growth
November
2023
Forecast
Current as of
November
2024
Limited Service
4.2% 5.7%
Quick Service 4.0% 5.5%
Fast Casual 5.4% 7.1%
Food to Go 5.0% 6.3%
Full Service
5.5% 7.3%
Pubs
4.9% 5.8%
Coffee Shops/Cafes
5.2% 6.7%
Hotels
6.0% 7.3%
Other Commercial
5.9% 8.3%
Total Commercial
5.0% 6.4%
Business & Industry
8.1% 10.4%
Healthcare
4.1% 6.3%
Education
4.5% 6.7%
All Other
3.1% 5.3%
Total Institutional
5.4% 7.6%
Total Foodservice
5.0% 6.5%
Current Growth in 2024 vs. Expectations
ROI Has Underperformed Expectations, While NI Has Benefitted From Currency Conversions
14
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
As the annual industry report is assembled by Bord
Bia and Technomic, any previous forecast figures
are reviewed and updated as necessary. The tables
to the right show the forecasts released in
November 2023 for 2024 and compares to the
current “actual” figures developed for this report.
For 2024, while there were several tweaks in the
north, the main adjustment was a currency
conversion that made the sterling growth relative to
the euro seem stronger than the underlying growth
occurring in that market. By showing both markets
in euro for comparative purposes, the growth in
Northern Ireland becomes higher.
For the Republic, overall growth expectations were
stronger last year than what developed, particularly
within pubs and the hotel sector. This has led to a
slower growth within commercial sectors than
originally forecasted. Within the Institutional
sectors, many of them performed generally close to
expectations with one exception: there was a
significant infusion of government purchases into
the education sector through the hot meal scheme
in 2023 and 2024 that may not have been fully
recognized in previous forecasts and which has
increased both the size and growth of the
Institutional side of the industry.
Summary of Irish Foodservice
Consumer Demand Has Slowed As Operator Challenges Mount
To summarise the performance of the industry in
2024, there remains fairly solid consumer demand
for dining out of home. However, higher menu
prices have started to deter consumers, who in
2024 have noticeably started to decelerate their
visits into foodservice. In addition, the operating
environment is increasingly daunting for many
restaurants and foodservice operators. Moving into
2025, these issues should be monitored closely, as
they are likely to continue to impact the health of
the foodservice operator and the performance of
the industry. Five overriding trends that were
identified include the following:
1. Significant cost challenges create profitability
issues. While food cost increases have moderated,
in most cases food costs remain elevated relative to
four or five years ago. However, even as operators
have learned to deal with these higher costs, they
have been dealt significant blows in other costs that
have risen significantly. Most acutely, this is felt by
labour costs, where minimum wages have
increased in 2023-2024 and are scheduled to
increase again in 2025. For many operators, this
means a 20%-30% increase in labour costs in a
short amount of time. Coupled with higher rents,
pension costs and an ROI VAT rate that will remain
at 13.5% through 2025, many operators have noted
that the cost structure of the industry is “broken.”
2. Demand for experiences an opportunity in
the face of consumer slowdown. As consumer
spending has slowed and footfall has decelerated
(or declined), operators report that there is strong
demand for “experiences.” Consumers remain
willing to spend money on occasions that are
unique and different, and operators are evaluating
their service models, menu and broader
environment to deliver the consumer a unique and
differentiated experience. Even among operators
focused on takeaway or delivery, there has been an
investment in the experience, including at easier
order ability and investing in packaging solutions to
deliver the food in “restaurant-quality” shape.
3. Impact of slower inbound travel and tourism.
The Irish foodservice industry is heavily dependent
on travel and tourism, and 2024 has been a
“disappointing” year for overseas visitors to Ireland.
Overall visits during the important summer months
were only up 3%, but the average visit duration was
down by two days—and overall spending as a
result was down. This has had a knock-on impact
on many businesses—from hotels to restaurants to
pubs—that are highly dependent on foreign
tourists.
4. Labour availability improved, but not solved.
Operators note that the labour market has improved
somewhat over the past year for many less-skilled
positions, but finding qualified candidates,
particularly in skilled professions remains a
concern. As minimum wage costs rise, there is a
knock-on effect for more skilled and talented labour,
which has increased the overall cost of hiring. Still,
operators in some cases have been able to stay
open longer hours as the situation has improved.
5. Digital investment to address key challenges.
As labour has remained a concern, and as other
challenges mount, operators have increasingly
turned to technology as a solution. This has
included more front-of-house technologies,
including ordering kiosks, online and app-driven
loyalty programmes, QR codes and easier payment
options—all ways to remove friction and allow
operators to use their in-house labour to focus on
the guest. Back-of-house investments include more
on-demand/video training, AI and tech-driven
inventory and ordering systems, some automation,
and better waste management and tracking
software (among others).
15
Summary of Commercial Channels
Key Trends Identified
The issues described on the previous page
impact operators across all foodservice
sectors. Beyond these, there are trends and
issues that are more specific to the commercial
sectors, and the following are core themes that
were identified during the 2024 research
process:
1. Mounting financial pressures take their
toll. Many restaurants, in particular, were able
to forego (or “warehouse”) much of the debt
and taxes that were incurred during the
pandemic. With five years to pay this back,
many operators see a looming payment due,
and with the profitability challenges continuing,
there is concern that some operators will
decide to liquidate, adding to the growing
number of high-visibility restaurant closures.
This has played out in areas such as
sustainability, which for commercial operators
has taken on more of a focus on cost control,
emphasising initiatives such as energy or water
savings that assist operators in margin
enhancement.
2. Menu engineering. Given the food and
labour cost situation, many operators continue
to engineer their menu for the best impact on
profit. This has involved taking higher-cost
items (such as steak filets) off the menu and
shrinking menus to focus on core items that
can drive profitability. Cheaper proteins—and
cuts of meat that can be slow-cooked—seem
to be increasingly trending. Operators have
largely optimised the number of items on their
menu but remain committed to maximising
margin as much as possible.
3. Growth of chains at the expense of
independents. Given the operating
environment, the small independent operator
(found largely in the restaurant and pub
sectors) has been hit hard from a cost
perspective. Many industry observers are
concerned that these operators—many of
which help create the unique Irish hospitality
reputation—are those that are most vulnerable
to closure. At the same time, larger operators,
including international chains, are better
positioned financially to operate in today’s cost
environment, and continue to grow and invest
in Ireland.
4. Diverging performance across various
regional areas. Somewhat related to the travel
and tourism issue, operators are reporting
varied performance within different areas of
Ireland. Suburban areas tend to perform the
best; this is a combination of continued work
from home, along with social issues in the city
centre, which have often deterred suburban
patrons. Given the challenges with maintaining
tourist numbers, many formerly strong areas
within Ireland, particularly along the west coast,
have fared poorer than areas around greater
Dublin.
5. More strategic procurement. Procurement
is becoming more strategically important as the
cost and profitability situation remains
challenging. Operators are reportedly
becoming more demanding of their purveyors
and requiring more transparency with pricing.
There are also some operators that report
trying to consolidate procurement into a fewer
number of sources to drive efficiencies and are
often “pricing shopping” more regularly among
distributors; this is happening even as some
consolidation occurs among those route-to-
market players.
16
Summary on Institutional Channels
Key Trends Identified
A number of those trends and issues seen
within the commercial channels have been
identified in the institutional sectors as well to
some degree, but there are a number of other
initiatives identified in 2024 that are more
specific to the Institutional sectors.
1. New routines have emerged. Among
offices, two days per week seems to be the
current norm, with some organisations
requiring workers to commit to three. This
results in a different routine now, with Mondays
and Fridays much busier in suburban areas.
2. Continued emphasis on, and growth of,
central kitchens. As a result of new routines,
offering full-preparation kitchens five days a
week can be challenging within many
Institutional operations, and many caterers
have invested in and moved more meal
production to central kitchens. These kitchens
are often where food deliveries from suppliers
come, and main dishes and other items are
partially or fully prepared and sent off to the
locations where the food can be reheated or
finished off.
This reduces the need for qualified culinary
staff on-site, as well as reducing costs and the
need for a full kitchen at many smaller sites.
3. Foodservice as an incentive. Businesses
are using food as a way to encourage people to
return to offices and campuses; there is an
increasing investment in higher-end “high-
street-quality” items to deter on-site consumers
from going elsewhere for meals. At the same
time, many are cognizant of the prices of meals
for captive audiences and are working to
maintain (or even reduce) prices to the
consumer, particularly in business, campus and
some healthcare establishments.
4. Technology and unmanned retail. As
noted, technology remains a solution for
operators looking to remove labour, and this
remains true in the institutional sectors as well.
However, here there have been additional
sector specific initiatives, including some
movement toward unmanned retail (into areas
such as micro-markets) although some of the
favourable growth outlook from one to two
years ago has not fully materialised.
There is also greater emphasis here on
software and technology to assist in waste-
reduction, calorie and allergens, and the overall
carbon footprint of the menu.
5. Heightened sustainability emphasis.
Within institutions, there is a larger focus on
sustainability, due in turn to the demand from
client locations (often large multinational
corporations or government-affiliated
institutions with their own ESG goals). Along
with an emphasis on carbon-free menus,
operators were are focusing much more than
their commercial counterparts in areas such as
traceability, composting and waste tracking,
and shifts away from single-use packaging.
6. Changing relationships between caterers
and clients. For contract caterers, rising costs
have meant that new contracts are often
negotiated under different circumstances than
previously. Particularly within businesses, there
seems to be more interest in free offer and, as
a result, cost control to the client becomes
paramount. The need for more transparency
has been noted as well.
17
Industry Imperatives
Future-Proofing Your Business
Given the current industry situation, it’s clear
that growth has cooled from the recovery-
driven heights of 2022 and 2023, and in many
ways, the industry has returned to the growth
cadences that were familiar prior to 2019.
Share gains will be harder to come by for all
participants, whether restaurant/foodservice
operator, distributor or supplier.
As such, the following are imperatives for
industry participants to successfully navigate
the current conditions and into 2025.
1. Relentless cost control. Among all industry
participants, having a relentless and ongoing
focus on cost-reduction is critical. For
operators, this often impacts their viability. For
suppliers, there is a demand from customers to
help with margin enhancement wherever
possible.
2. Functional innovation. While there is
always a need for new items to create
consumer interest, most operators today report
that the innovation they need most relate to
items and services that will help them to deliver
greater efficiencies and profitability.
Being able to purchase items that require less
packaging, that yield more or that bring to
market “smarter” ways of taking costs out of
business are what is currently being demanded
in today’s environment.
3. Cultivate loyalty. With all parts of the
industry being more cost-focused, it’s also
important to create customer loyalty. There
remains a willingness to spend where there is a
value associated—whether from the consumer
or throughout the supply chain—and customer
loyalty is created by demonstrating value and
showing concern for customers.
4. Implement sustainable solutions where
appropriate and necessary. Sustainability
remains important, but for many commercial
operators, survival may trump a number of
these initiatives, at least in the short term. The
industry must continue to drive sustainability—
and can be successful in initiatives that also
reduce costs. Institutional players remain much
more committed to broader initiatives such as
emissions reductions and low/no-carbon
menus.
Any sustainability solutions should be able to
demonstrate the associated return on
investment.
5. Look to technology as a solution but
remember that hospitality comes first. The
industry is increasingly looking at technology as
a panacea for cost control, and continued
investments and trials will continue. At the
same time, technology should be used as an
optimiser for labour efficiencies and
effectiveness, rather than seeking to replace
the human element in hospitality.
6. Prepare for new market dynamics. The
industry has slowed significantly from the
recovery years following COVID-19, and
suppliers, distributors and operators all need to
reset expectations relative to market conditions
and outlook. Re-evaluating strategies and
understanding where to invest—and what
customers will be the biggest driver of growth—
is critical for companies of all types. Having a
more targeted and focused strategy will be
critical over the next 12-18 months in the face
of uneven growth and performance.
18
Section Three
Detailed Size and Segmentation
Data for the Irish Foodservice
Industry
2024
Commercial
88%
Institutional
12%
TOTAL 2023 OPERATOR PURCHASES
€3.36B
Commercial
86%
Institutional
14%
TOTAL 2024 OPERATOR PURCHASES
€3.62B
Commercial
91%
Institutional
9%
TOTAL 2023 CONSUMER
SPEND*
€9.37B
Commercial and Institutional
Channels
Total island of Ireland, 2024 vs. 2023
Within the broader foodservice figures on the island of Ireland, this report
evaluates both commercial and institutional spending and purchases.
The overall foodservice industry in Ireland (including both ROI and NI) increased
in turnover to €9.85 billion in 2024, up from €9.37 billion last year. Overall
purchases by the operator community on food, nonalcohol beverage and other
items (such as packaging for foodservice) increased to €3.62 billion in 2024 from
€3.36 billion in 2023.
Commercial channels include limited-service restaurants, full-service
restaurants, pubs, coffee shops/cafes, hotels and other commercial foodservice
establishments, such as cinemas, theme parks, tourist attractions, sport venues
and clubs, spas, events catering, recreational activities and cruises. Overall
commercial sales slowed considerably in 2024, particularly among pubs and
hotel foodservice.
Institutional channels include business and industry (B&I) locations, healthcare
facilities, educational institutions and other institutional foodservice
establishments, including government organisations, prisons and armed forces.
These sectors are traditionally more stable and exhibit fewer fluctuations in
growth. However, this part of the industry has actually grown faster than
commercial sectors, driven by investment by the Irish government in the hot
meals scheme in schools and by continued growth and recovery in the B&I
sector.
In 2024, commercial channels accounted for 90% of the value of total consumer
spending and 86% of the total value operator purchases. The difference is
accounted for by the varying levels of consumer spending within the institutional
sectors coupled with subsidies and free/reduced meal costs in many sectors.
Commercial
90%
Institutional
10%
TOTAL 2024 CONSUMER
SPEND*
€9.85B
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 20
Commercial Channels 2024 vs. 2023
Total island of Ireland
As noted on the previous page, commercial channels within the Republic
of Ireland and Northern Ireland represent the vast majority of the value
spend within the Irish foodservice channel. In 2024, the commercial sector
gained almost €360 million in value in consumer spending.
In 2023, total commercial foodservice was €8.56 billion in consumer
spending for the entire island of Ireland. In 2024, this figure grew to €8.82
billion, or an increase of just over 4%. Overall growth has slowed
considerably against higher growth rates seen in 2022 and 2023 as full
recovery has been reached.
Examining the commercial channel in greater detail, there is strong growth
in limited-service restaurants, up 4.7%; full-service restaurants, up 6%;
and coffee shops, up 5.2%. The other non-commercial sectors, which
include recreational facilities, arenas, events and other tourism-led
operations, also saw strong growth. This continues to show that consumer
spending has slowed, but that consumers are still willing to pay for unique
experiences and events.
Hotel foodservice and pubs grew, but at a much slower rate in 2024,
reflecting some challenges specific to those sectors, particularly in areas
outside of urban areas. Rural pubs and hotels in certain parts of Ireland
have seen struggles with both consumer spending, a lack of rooms and a
dampened tourism season due to poor weather.
Limited
Service
40%
Pubs
18%
Hotels
18%
Full Service
13%
Coffee
Shops/Cafes
6%
Other Commercial
4%
TOTAL 2023 SPEND*
€8.56B
Limited
Service
40%
Pubs
17%
Hotels
18%
Full
Service
14%
Coffee
Shops/Cafes
6%
Other Commercial
5%
TOTAL 2024 SPEND*
€8.82B
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 21
Institutional Channels 2024 vs. 2023
Total island of Ireland
Within the island of Ireland, the Institutional channels (sometimes referred
to as non-commercial sectors) are relatively smaller compared to
commercial foodservice. Overall, institutional operators generate €937
million in value within the Irish foodservice channel. Many of these types
of operations tend to be more stable and are less dependent on consumer
behaviours and more dependent on changes in the institution’s
population/enrolment.. For calendar year 2024, the increase across these
sectors was 15%, leading to an increase in the Institutional sector’s value
of €124 million in value.
Looking deeper into the institutional channel, the largest sector remains
business and industry. As has been the case since the pandemic, this
sector remains below 2019 turnover levels as the overall return to work
within offices remains the primary inhibitor (even as operators look to
innovate to drive incremental revenues). Still, this sector represents 40%
of revenue in the institutional challenge and it has seen above-average
growth, with nearly 10% increase seen in 2024.
The education sector, which includes primary, secondary and third-level
institutions, has gained share over the past year. This is largely due to a
government commitment to provide hot meals to students. While this
scheme will be rolling out over several years, there was a strong infusion
of spending into the sector in 2023 and 2024. Other institutional sectors
are seeing mostly flat growth based on population (i.e. healthcare and
other institutional, which includes prisons and other government facilities).
22
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
B&I
42%
Healthcare
31%
Education
21%
All Other
6%
TOTAL 2023 SPEND*
€813
B&I
40%
Healthcare
29%
Education
26%
All Other
5%
TOTAL 2024 SPEND*
€937M
2024 Irish Foodservice Market Snapshot
Total island of Ireland (IOI) Consumer Spending and Operator Purchases
Total IOI Foodservice Market 2024 Consumer
Spending (€M) 2023 Consumer
Spending (€M) 2024 Operator
Purchases (€M) 2023 Operator
Purchases (€M)
2023-2024
Change (in €)
Limited Service
(Quick Service, Fast Casual, Food to Go) €3,599 €3,438 €1,300 €1,238 4.7%
Full Service €1,220 €1,150 €435 €405 6.0%
Pubs €1,547 €1,502 €523 €510 3.0%
Coffee Shops/Cafes €553 €525 €153 €147 5.2%
Hotels €1,602 €1,572 €566 €554 1.9%
Other Commercial €397 €370 €140 €131 7.4%
Total Commercial €8,916 €8,557 €3,117 €2,985 4.2%
Business & Industry €371 €337 €199 €172 10.0%
Healthcare €269 €255 €141 €135 5.3%
Education €249 €174 €136 €86 43.2%
Other Institutional €49 €46 €24 €23 4.6%
Total Institutional €937 €813 €500 €417 15.3%
Total IOI €9,854 €9,370 €3,616 €3,402 5.2%
Note: All 2024 figures are preliminary; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 23
2024 Irish Foodservice Market Snapshot
Republic of Ireland (ROI) Consumer Spending and Operator Purchases
ROI Foodservice Market 2024 Consumer
Spending (€M) 2023 Consumer
Spending (€M) 2024 Operator
Purchases (€M) 2023 Operator
Purchases (€M)
2023-2024
Change (in €)
Limited Service
(Quick Service, Fast Casual, Food to Go) €2,743 €2,629 €996 €944 4.3%
Full Service €857 €813 €309 €286 5.5%
Pubs €1,143 €1,120 €388 €380 2.0%
Coffee Shops/Cafes €416 €397 €115 €111 4.7%
Hotels €1,184 €1,183 €421 €416 0.1%
Other Commercial €315 €294 €111 €104 7.1%
Total Commercial €6,658 €6,436 €2,340 €2,241 3.5%
Business & Industry €293 €267 €157 €136 9.9%
Healthcare €169 €161 €89 €85 4.7%
Education €185 €114 €101 €56 62.4%
Other Institutional €38 €36 €19 €18 4.5%
Total Institutional €685 €578 €366 €295 18.4%
Total ROI €7,343 €7,014 €2,707 €2,536 4.7%
Note: All 2024 figures are preliminary; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 24
2024 Irish Foodservice Market Snapshot
Northern Ireland (NI) Consumer Spending and Operator Purchases
NI Foodservice Market 2024 Consumer
Spending (€M) 2024 Consumer
Spending (£M) 2023 Consumer
Spending (€M) 2024 Operator
Purchases (€M) 2023 Operator
Purchases (€M)
2023-2024
Change (in
Sterling)
Limited Service
(Quick Service, Fast Casual,
Food to Go) €856 £730 €809 €305 €294 3.5%
Full Service €362 £309 €338 €126 €119 5.1%
Pubs €404 £344 €381 €135 €130 3.6%
Coffee Shops/Cafes €137 £117 €128 €38 €36 4.4%
Hotels €417 £356 €389 €145 €138 5.1%
Other Commercial €82 £70 €76 €29 €27 6.0%
Total Commercial €2,258 £1,925 €2,122 €776 €745 4.2%
Business & Industry €78 £67 €71 €41 €36 8.1%
Healthcare €100 £86 €94 €52 €50 4.1%
Education €64 £54 €60 €34 €30 4.5%
Other Institutional €10 £9 €10 €5 €5 3.1%
Total Institutional €253 £216 €235 €133 €121 5.4%
Total NI €2,511 £2,141 €2,357 €910 €866 4.3%
Note: All 2024 figures are preliminary; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 25
2024 Food and Beverage Revenue Split
Looking at turnover across the individual segments, beverages represent
approximately 24% of sales (excluding alcohol). This has been a relatively
constant figure and is similar to what was seen prior to the pandemic.
Beverages have gained slightly in coffee shops as there has been some
innovation in beverage offerings and a slight curtailment of food offerings,
but in general the figures have moved only slightly since 2023.
While shifts toward beverage are encouraging to operators from a margin
perspective (beverages generally have higher profit compared to most
food items), the cost environment remains a significant challenge for
operators. Direct food and beverage costs have moderated, but labour
and other operational costs continue to increase and remain elevated,
creating margin and profitability issues for many operators. Menu mix and
a focus on higher margin food and beverage items has become the norm
for many foodservice operators hoping to put an emphasis on driving a
more profitable mix of sales.
As in the past, the share of beverage revenue is higher in the commercial
channel. There are several beverage-forward types of operators, including
coffee shops/cafes and limited service (which includes takeaway and food
to go), and these types of operators tend to drive the beverage mix higher
in commercial than what is seen in institutional sectors.
76%
80%
81%
79%
88%
75%
76%
84%
77%
29%
84%
85%
75%
24%
20%
19%
21%
12%
25%
24%
16%
23%
71%
16%
15%
25%
Total
Total Institutional
Other Institutional
Education
Health
Business & Industry
Total Commercial
Other Commercial
Hotels &…
Coffee Shops/Cafes
Pubs
Full Service
Limited Service
SHARE OF TOTAL REVENUE 2024*
TOTAL IOI FOODSERVICE MARKET
Food Beverages
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion. All 2024 figures are preliminary
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 26
Delivered
Wholesale
72%
Direct
7%
Cash-and-Carry
9%
Contracts/
Wheels Only
11%
Retail
1%
TOTAL IOI F&B PURCHASES
€3.6B
2024 Route-to-Market Assessment
Route to market is measured in operator purchases (which are the same as
distributor sales). These are calculated separately from the turnover figures and
represent the full value of food and beverage being sold into the foodservice
operator. In general, operator purchases tend to grow at a slightly different rate
than consumer spending due to differing inflation levels and operator practices
relative to passing along different types of costs.
In 2024, operator purchases grew at a rate of 6.3% (i.e., a higher rate than
consumer spending) to reach a value of € 3.6 billion across the full island of
Ireland.
•The most prevalent route to market in Irish foodservice remains wholesale
delivery, which accounted for 72% of operator purchases in 2024 and saw
growth of nearly 7%. This type of distribution gained share over the past year
and is indexing well above 2019 levels. There has been a great deal of
consolidation and many wholesalers are working at becoming a one-stop
shop for all of the needs of their operator customers.
•The cash-and-carry segment represents approximately 9% of the total value
of purchases delivered. Growth in 2024 has remained a bit sluggish as
operators have valued the convenience of delivery. Still, many operators,
particularly independents, value the shopping experience at many of these
outlets but are often switching more purchase to delivery.
•The contracts/wheels only segment reflects the conditions of not only large
chains, but also contract caterers that tend to have a “cost-plus” arrangement
for distribution. This area was up 7% in 2024 as both contract catering and
chain business have been relatively strong.
•Operators also occasionally source from retail outlets (i.e., purchase directly
from a supermarket). This only accounts for a small share of the business
and has not grown at the rate of the market. Most operators use this more for
emergency/fill-in purchases and tend to source from more traditional
distribution types.
2024 Irish Foodservice Route to Market 2022-23 CAGR Index to 2019
Delivered wholesale 6.5% 129.5
Direct 4.5% 92.0
Cash-and-carry 5.0% 115.6
Contracts/wheels only 7.2% 113.2
Retail 4.0% 109.4
Total 6.3% 122.5
*Note: Based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion. All 2024 figures are preliminary
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 27
Product Category Segmentation
As noted, the value of operator
purchases is tracked separately from
the value of consumer spending in
Ireland. In 2023, the value of all
operator purchases is calculated to
be 3.62 billion, up 6.3% from last
year. For many categories,
inflation/price increases were more
moderate (and, in rare instances,
there were some price decreases),
so this measurement of value
includes both increase in demand
and pricing. In general, while menu
prices continue to rise throughout
2024, the increases were based less
on food costs and more on other
inputs (such as labour) that
continued to rise, but it’s important to
note that operator margins are still
much tighter than they have been
historically.
Looking at specific product
categories and types, proteins
remain the largest product category
in terms of operator purchases,
accounting for 40% of the total and
similar to last year.
This reflects largely higher
commodity costs, particularly on
beef, but operators have also pivoted
to lower cost cuts and to lower cost
proteins (such as chicken).
Bakery, fruit/vegetables and
beverages all represent between
15%-17% of purchases. Dairy
represents 8% but has continued to
see higher growth in value as many
dairy prices remain high.
Note that the “all other” figure
includes packaging costs that are
specifically included as “cost of
goods” in the food or beverage item
this includes single-use cups as well
as wraps, bags, etc. This category
would also include any other food
item not otherwise noted.
The figures shown here include both
Republic of Ireland purchases, as
well as food and nonalcohol
beverage purchases made in
Northern Ireland and converted to
euro.
6.7%
5.0%
7.0%
5.2%
8.0%
5.5% 6.3%
Proteins Bakery Fruit/Veg Beverage Dairy All Other Total
2023-2024 CHANGE IN OPERATOR PURCHASES
Proteins
40%
Bakery
15%
Fruit/Veg
17%
Beverage
16%
Dairy
8%
All Other
4%
SHARE OF OPERATOR PURCHASES
2023
Proteins
40%
Bakery
15%
Fruit/Veg
17%
Beverage
16%
Dairy
7%
All Other
5%
SHARE OF OPERATOR PURCHASES
2024
Note: Data shown is based on industry figures calculated in euros, including currency conversion; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
All 2024 figures are preliminary
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 28
2024 Foodservice
Product by Value
Product Category Estimated Change
2023-2024
2024 Operator
Purchases
(€ Millions) Share of Total (%)
Fruit & Vegetables 7.0% €620 17%
Poultry 5.5% €483 13%
Beef 9.5% €404 11%
Bread/Bakery Savoury 5.5% €338 9%
Bacon 7.0% €281 8%
Dairy 8.0% €273 8%
Sweet Bakery 3.5% €152 4%
Pork 4.5% €148 4%
Fish/Seafood 4.0% €96 3%
Grocery 5.0% €50 1%
Confectionery 5.5% €25 1%
Desserts 6.8% €32 1%
Lamb 6.5% €26 1%
Beverage 5.2% €565 16%
All Other 5.7% €124 3%
Total 6.3% €3,616.3 100%
Fruit, vegetables, poultry, beef and bread/bakery
(nonsweet) account for approximately half of operator
purchases, which is not surprising, given that these are
staples for a restaurant/foodservice operation. Overall
growth remains strong for each of these four major
categories.
Bacon and dairy are closing in on the top four, with
each of these representing approximately 8% of total
purchases. Both have been growing above market
rates.
The figures shown here include all purchases on the
island of Ireland and as are an aggregate of both
Republic of Ireland purchases as well as purchases
made in Northern Ireland (with the value converted to
euros). They include all food and nonalcohol beverage
items.
Note: All 2024 figures are preliminary; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic estimates based on market input 29
Summary of Off-Premise Trends
For purposes of this study, “off-premise” is defined as any
meal/occasion that is consumed outside of the dining room. In general,
it consists of takeaway (including click-and-collect), delivery (both
aggregators and self-delivery), drive-thrus and catered events (i.e.,
restaurants bringing meals to corporate events, etc.).
As the business has decelerated in 2024, much of the dine-in business,
particularly among limited-service operators, has slowed considerably or
declined as well. Dine-in remains the dominant share of full-service
restaurants and pubs, but for LSR operators (including coffee shops),
the norm is for consumption off-site.
Off-premise remains a strong contributor to sales within many
commercial sectors, primarily from takeaway but also delivery. Both are
at levels well above what was seen prior to the 2020 pandemic.
Consumers seem to demand two contradictory things—experience and
convenience—and the trend toward off-premise supports that desire for
convenient solutions. Delivery, in particular, has remained relatively
robust despite fees and higher prices as consumers have shown a
willingness to pay for convenience when necessary. There is also an
ongoing willingness for consumers to “treat” themselves by staying in
and ordering for delivery.
Drive-thrus remain a very small but growing part of the commercial
foodservice space in Ireland. There are limited opportunities to install
drive-thrus, but where it makes sense (e.g., motorways, etc.), operators
are adding these as options for their consumers and have reported
success in areas where these have been installed.
-83%
89%
184%
17% 3%
4%
-3%
5% 8% 6%
21%
-2%
13% 8% 3%
20% 1%
-9%
16% 8%
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
YOY CHANGE IN TURNOVER
Dine-In Takeaway Delivery Drive-Thru
56%
18% 29% 52% 54% 53%
34%
63% 54%
36% 34% 35%
8% 16% 14% 10% 8% 10%
2% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3%
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
SHARE ON- VS. OFF-PREMISE
Other
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-In
Note: Includes only limited service, full service, pubs and coffee shops in this analysis; Republic of Ireland only; Figures for previous years have in some
instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 30
Foodservice Industry Forecasts for 2025
FOODSERVICE INDUSTRY FORECAST
Calendar-year 2024 saw a shift in spending, with the Irish consumer
moving from recovery to resilience. As a result, the double-digit growth
experienced while the Irish foodservice industry was returning to pre-
pandemic levels was lowered in 2024 to mid-single digits. As noted,
inflation remained elevated, and consumers appeared to be at a point
where any additional price increases reduced overall frequency, such that
underlying footfall and traffic was essentially flat across most of the
industry.
For 2025, the challenges for the industry are related to the economy and
to levers that can be pulled to create incremental demand. Ireland (at
least the Republic of Ireland) remains strong in terms of labour
participation/jobs and economic growth, and even with positive tailwinds,
the industry has slowed considerably. Next year, with another year of
more moderate inflation and with disposable incomes starting to catch up,
the expectation is that the underlying footfall should accelerate slightly.
However, coupled with a lower inflation rate, the forecast for value growth
in Ireland is just below 5% for next year, and 2025 will likely be another
year where strong growth is hard to come by.
It’s important to remember that the last several years have been anything
but “normal,” and pre-pandemic overall industry growth tended to range
from 3%-6% per year, so in many ways this completes the return to a
more typical growth trend (albeit at a higher cost plateau and with a more
challenging margin situation for many).
The total value of the industry in 2025 is expected to exceed €10 billion for
the first time ever; this is nearly 19% higher than pre-pandemic (with a
recovery index of 118.8).
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 31
5.2%
4.5%
2024 (P)
2025 (F)
Change in Consumer Spending
ANNUAL GROWTH
118.8
113.7
2025 (F)
2024 (P)
Index of Consumer Spending
SALES/VOLUME; INDEX 2019=100
2025 Foodservice Forecasts
The figures to the left show a summary of
the size of the industry in both the
Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
going back to 2021 and forecasted
through 2025. The full recovery can be
tracked in both markets, with full
recovery from the pandemic (driven by
several years of double-digit growth)
realised in 2023. The growth slowed
significantly in both markets in 2024.
The current outlook for growth in both the
Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
for 2025 show expectations of a 4%-5%
increase in value, reflecting current
market conditions and the expectations
for consumer spending next year.
Note that these figures are shown in
euro; the performance of Northern
Ireland in sterling has varied from what is
shown here due to annual currency
fluctuations. For 2024, measured in
sterling, the Northern Ireland foodservice
market only grew by 4.3%, but looks
stronger due to favourable conversion
rates.
NORTHERN IRELAND
2021 Turnover
€1.41B (+18%)
Index=62.9
2022 Turnover
€2.14B (+52%)
Index=96
2023 Turnover
€2.36B (+10%)
Index=105
2024 Turnover (P)
€2.51B (+7%)
Index=112
2025 Turnover (F)
€2.62B (+4%)
Index=117
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
2021 Turnover
€3.75B (+14%)
Index=59
2022 Turnover
€6.17B (+65%)
Index=96
2023 Turnover
€7.01B (+14%)
Index=109
2024 Turnover (P)
€7.34B (+5%)
Index=114
2025 Turnover (F)
€7.67B (+5%)
Index=119
Note: Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated; Northern Ireland growth shown in euro and includes currency conversion;
(F)=forecast; (P)=preliminary
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 32
Growth Outlook for 2025
With Comparisons to 2019
2025 Growth Outlook
All Island of
Ireland (IOI)
Growth
IOI Index of
Recovery
(2019=100)
Republic of Ireland
(ROI) Growth in
Turnover
ROI Index of
Recovery
(2019=100)
Northern Ireland
(NI) Growth in
Turnover (in Euro)
NI Index of
Recovery
(2019=100)
Limited Service 4.6% 125.6 4.7% 126.8 4.3% 121.9
Full Service 5.3% 123.5 5.4% 124.3 5.0% 121.5
Pubs 2.7% 112.1 2.3% 112.6 3.7% 110.8
Coffee Shops/Cafes 5.2% 120.4 5.2% 120.8 5.0% 119.1
Hotels &
Accommodations 2.5% 107.1 1.9% 104.3 4.0% 115.8
Other Commercial 7.8% 129.6 8.1% 131.9 6.6% 121.4
All Commercial 4.2% 119.1 4.1% 119.3 4.4% 118.4
Business & Industry 3.9% 92.7 3.9% 93.6 3.9% 89.4
Healthcare 4.6% 116.4 4.6% 117.0 4.5% 115.3
Education 16.1% 177.0 20.1% 209.0 4.6% 117.2
All Other 3.4% 118.3 3.5% 119.3 3.3% 114.7
All Institutional 7.3% 116.5 8.4% 120.6 4.3% 106.2
Total Foodservice 4.5% 118.8 4.5% 119.4 4.4% 117.0
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 33
Section Four
Assessment by Sector
Commercial Sector Insights
35
Overview of Limited-Service
Restaurants
The limited-service restaurant segment incorporates a number of
subsegments, including traditional quick-service restaurants, fast-casual
restaurants and food to go (which encompasses convenience-driven items
for takeaway in forecourt/convenience operators and other grab-and-go
products found in retail operations).
The total limited-service segment in 2024 is valued at €3.60 billion in
consumer spending. This includes both spending in the Republic of Ireland
and Northern Ireland. This segment has grown by just under 5% in 2024,
increasing by €160 million.
Traditional quick-service restaurants account for 78% of total consumer
spending, consistent with figures seen in 2022 and 2023. In 2024, the quick-
service sector was actually the lowest-performing sector, increasing by
4.7%
The food-to-go sector remains at 16% of the limited-service segment. This
sector remains relatively strong and grow at 5% in value in 2024. There
continue to be variances in performance; motorways and suburban areas
appear to be outperforming urban areas (and especially city centres), and
some of the regional, tourism-led areas outside of Dublin had inconsistent
performance throughout the year.
Finally, fast casual remains a relatively smaller part of the limited-service
segment and accounts for 6% of total sales. It did grow by 5.6% last year.
The following pages show more detail on trends within each of the
subsegments of limited service, as well as the differences in revenue and
purchases between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
36
Traditional
QSR
78%
Fast
Casual
6% Food to
Go
16%
LIMITED-SERVICE RESTAURANTS
TOTAL TURNOVER 2024
€3.6 BILLION
Traditional
QSR
78%
Fast
Casual
6% Food to
Go
16%
LIMITED-SERVICE RESTAURANTS
TOTAL TURNOVER 2023
€3.4 BILLION
Note: All 2024 figures are preliminary; Figures for previous years have in some instances been updated
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic estimates based on market input
Quick-Service Restaurants
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Traditional quick-service restaurants (QSRs) make up the largest sector within
the broader limited-service channel. These operators are generally characterised
by offering counter service in an order-and-pay-first system. While they generally
offer indoor seating, they tend to be have a stronger focus on takeaway and
delivery, and increasingly offer drive-thru options where appropriate.
The figures included here count both chain operators and independent operators
(including chippers and other small fast-food operations).
Key Trends
Traditional quick-service has grown and recovered the most since the pandemic
(largely because it wasn’t decimated in 2020-2021 in the way other sectors
were). However, the growth has slowed dramatically, and quick service was up
4.5% in 2024.
This sector’s focus on takeaway, delivery and (increasingly) drive-thru have
appealed to consumers and their need for convenience. However, as prices
have accelerated, operators report a slowdown in some of the delivery business.
This has been exacerbated by a driver/courier issue, where many quick-service
operators that self-deliver have been challenged to find qualified delivery
personnel.
QSRs often appeal to lower-income consumers, and many of these consumers
are the ones that have most acutely felt much of the inflationary environment
over the past two to three years. There has been an increased focus on value
offerings, and price increases throughout the quick-service sector have been
more muted than in other parts of the industry.
37
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Northern Ireland
⚫€713M in turnover
⚫€255M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 3.3% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 4.2% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=117 *
⚫2025 Index (F)=122 *
77
105 118 123 128
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
Republic of Ireland
⚫€2.10B in turnover
⚫€769M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.2% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
4.7% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=123
⚫2025 Index (F)=128
80
104 111 117 122
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Fast-Casual Restaurants
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Fast-casual restaurants (FCRs) are classified as limited-service operations, but are
generally more upscale, investing more in the design and ambiance of the operation. It is
a pay-first service system with limited or no tableside service.
Food quality is generally perceived to be higher, and the price points tend to be €14 or
higher per person (although there is some blurring between FCR and QSR, as inflation
impacts overall menu prices).
Similar to traditional QSRs, fast-casual restaurants are often systemised with limited,
focused menus.
Key Trends
Fast casual is more oriented toward urban centres and suburban areas, with many
locations located on the high street. Because they tend to be higher priced, they appeal
more to middle- and higher-income consumers and, as consumers look for value beyond
price, these restaurants are often appealing. They also tend to have a stronger
orientation toward healthier items.
These operations have done very well in suburban locations; high-street locations in city
centres remain somewhat challenged, and some operators are reassessing their overall
portfolio to position outlets in more favourable trading areas.
These operators have seen growth in 2024. FCR has not recovered quite to the degree
as more traditional fast food but was the fastest-growing LSR sector this year.
In general, takeaway remains a critical part of FCR operators’ growth plans. Similar to
QSR, the delivery component of the fast-casual business has decelerated somewhat but
remains a core area of focus for many of these operators as well.
38
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€168M in turnover
⚫€61M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 5.1% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
5.7% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=116
⚫2025 Index (F)=123
Northern Ireland
⚫€54M in turnover
⚫€19M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.9% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 5.1% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=112*
⚫2025 Index (F)=118*
58
99 111 116 123
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
67
99 105 112 118
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Food to Go
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
The food-to-go (FTG) segment includes convenience stores, supermarket
prepared foods and petrol stations with forecourt convenience stores. The
definition of this sector excludes QSR brands found in these establishments (as
sales from those locations are included in the QSR definition).
Key Trends
These operators are largely driven by the consumers on the go—commuting or
traveling—or looking for quick stops during the workday or convenience-driven
meals (largely breakfast and lunch.) City centre locations remain tied to return to
work, which is still well off pre-pandemic footfall levels.
Given the convenience-oriented nature of these occasions, many operators have
focused on value offerings. Price increases have been modest for many
operators, even as they’ve invested in new products such as coffee, baked
goods and the deli, and operators report trying to avoid “till shock” from their
strongest consumers. Meal deals have become more prevalent.
With labour costs still high, this unwillingness to pass on prices has kept footfall
mostly steady, but operators report that overall margins have declined as a
result.
Much of the future innovation here (beyond new menu items) is focused on
speeding the overall customer journey through the store. Consumers are less
inclined to want to queue, and a focus on getting customers in and out has
become a priority for many operators. This includes more grab-and-go and self-
service and greater investment in technology, particularly at the point of sale.
39
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€478M in turnover
⚫€165M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.7% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
4.6% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=117
⚫2025 Index (F)=122
Northern Ireland
⚫€88M in turnover
⚫€30M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.1% in
value in 2024*.
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 4.5% for 2025.
⚫2024 Index=118*
⚫2025 Index (F)=123*
83 103 112 117 122
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
88 106 111 118 123
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Full-Service Restaurants
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Full-service restaurants (FSRs) generally focus on serving lunch or dinner,
although some may also be involved with breakfast. This type of restaurant
includes both casual dining and white-tablecloth, sit-down restaurants.
Menus offer a complete range of items often using fresh ingredients—starters,
soups, main courses and desserts. Meals are often accompanied by wine or
broader alcohol offer (however, figures shown here exclude the value of alcohol).
Key Trends
Operators report that consumer demand has been steady and consistent. In
total, this sector has seen modest increases in footfall, although there is a great
degree of variability by operator type and location. Revenue growth is also been
driven by menu price increases, which has started to impact overall visits.
The main challenge for most operators here has been profitability. Even as
turnover has been steady, costs continue to rise faster than the consumer
willingness to spend, and many operators feel that they are at the peak of what
they can ask for increased prices.
The profitability issue has been driven not so much by food costs, which
decelerated somewhat in 2024, but rather by significantly higher wages and
benefits. A number of operators have also debt warehoused from the pandemic
that is coming due. The increase in 2023 of the VAT from the pandemic-era 9%
back to 13.5% was noted as an impediment to profitability.
There is concern that this cost situation will disproportionately impact the
independent operator. In this case, chain and restaurant groups may be
positioned better for growth.
40
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€857M in turnover
⚫€309M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 5.5% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
5.4% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=118
⚫2025 Index (F)=124
Northern Ireland
⚫€362M in turnover
⚫€126M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 5.1% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 5.0% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=116*
⚫2025 Index (F)=122*
52
95 112 118 124
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
57
95 108 116 122
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Pubs
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Licensed pubs include drinking establishments that are outlets built specifically
for (and largely dependent on) the sale of alcohol for on premise consumption.
Pubs are characterised by a bar service and are often seen as social meeting
places, rather than a place of pure consumption.
Note that these figures are for food and nonalcohol beverages only.
Key Trends
Publicans reported mixed results; many pubs in and around Dublin showed
relatively strong growth, particularly around events and from tourism, but pubs in
outlying areas noted much weaker trading conditions throughout much of 2024.
Rural pubs, in particular, are struggling, and many of the closures that have been
publicised tend to come from this type of operator.
From a food perspective, many note that it is getting harder to provide a food
offer; publicans note that the volume of sales generally comes from three to four
days of the week, which makes it harder to cover the full costs of a full food
programme. Operators are closely scrutinising the economics of opening the
kitchen on any given evening.
There are some concerns about the new form of “competitive socialising” that
may draw younger consumers away from pubs. This is true as occasions
continue to shift and, in addition, many operators are seeing slow late-night
business, both as customers have concerns about urban safety and about the
ability to find taxis.
For 2025, the key concerns remain around margin, profitability and overall
viability. Pubs that are not centered around masses of people or events that can
generate footfall are expected to underperform.
41
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€1.14B in turnover
⚫€388M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 2.0% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
2.3% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=110
⚫2025 Index (F)=113
Northern Ireland
⚫€404M in turnover
⚫€135M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 3.6% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 3.7% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=107*
⚫2025 Index (F)=111*
34
94 108 110 113
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
43
90 101 107 111
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Coffee Shops/Cafes
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Coffee shops and cafes are quick-service restaurants without table service that
emphasise coffee and other hot beverages. Typically, there is also a limited
selection of cold and hot foods such as pastries, sandwiches and breakfast items
on offer.
Their distinguishing feature is that they allow customers to relax, work and
socialise on their premises for long periods of time, without the pressure to leave
promptly after eating.
Key Trends
Coffee shops footfall has generally been flat across most of Ireland. As with
many other segments, suburban areas are performing better, while those
situated in urban centres continue to be adversely impacted by the slow return to
office.
Pricing remains a challenge. Operators note that there is a ceiling on consumer
willingness to spend, and price increases have been more moderate in this
sector.
Cold beverages continue to make inroads, and not necessarily just during the
summer. Cold brew is starting to appear on menus, and other cold beverage
such as cold coffee, milkshakes and lemonade are seeing increased consumer
interest.
Growth expectations are extremely modest for 2025. There is some interest
among operators in menu and product innovation, as well as brand refreshment,
all of which are hoped to create some renewed enthusiasm among customers.
Still, operators are generally expecting a year similar to 2024.
42
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€416M in turnover
⚫€115M in food and
beverage
purchases
⚫Growth of 4.7% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted
increase of 5.2% in
value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=115
⚫2025 Index (F)=121
Northern Ireland
⚫€137M in turnover
⚫€38M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.4% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 5.0% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=113*
⚫2025 Index (F)=119*
81 100 110 115 121
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
86 101 106 113 119
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Hotels
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
This sector is defined by food and beverage offerings in the hotels and
accommodations channel. It includes breakfast programmes, in-room dining,
banquets/events and other prepared food/beverage offered on-site.
Other accommodation forms such as guest houses are included, but only where
they are large enough (10 rooms or more) and these are few in number. This
definition excludes bead-and-breakfast businesses as well.
Key Trends
Hotel food and beverage had a challenging 2024, even as bedroom sales have
been generally solid. Cost increases have hurt margins, and hotels are shifting
views on whether food and beverage (F&B) can drive profitability. With higher
bedroom rates, people have pulled back on their F&B spend and, as this spiral
continues, hoteliers are often less willing to invest in F&B. With accommodation
being seen as subsidizing F&B operations, there has been a shift in many hotels’
foodservice strategy.
Within urban areas, hotels continue to see increased competition from
restaurants. This has impacted their willingness to put out a strong dinner offer.
Breakfast remains a daypart that hotels believe they can “own,” but other
dayparts have been impacted by changing consumer preferences.
Northern Ireland hotels performed somewhat better (albeit off a smaller base of
business). They did not have the impact of housing refugees and tourism has
been relatively strong.
Labour cost concerns, in particular, are causing worry among hotels.
One bright spot in the Republic of Ireland may be the return of some bedrooms
to commercial viability in 2025. Current estimates are that 10%-15% of
bedrooms remain utilised by the government to shelter refugees, but many of
those contracts expire in 2025. Still, it often takes several months to prepare
these rooms to accept guests again so there may not be immediate gain.
43
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€1.18B in turnover
⚫€421M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 0.1% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
1.9% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=102
⚫2025 Index (F)=104
Northern Ireland
⚫€417M in turnover
⚫€145M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 5.1% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 4.0% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=111*
⚫2025 Index (F)=116*
48
89 102 102 104
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
51
90 104 111 116
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
44
Other Commercial Operations
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
This channel is diverse and comprises cinemas, theme parks, golf courses,
tourist attractions, sport venues and clubs, spas, event catering, recreational
activities and cruises.
The largest subchannel is represented by sporting events. The other key
subsegment is the travel channel which includes on-board and terminus catering
for flights, trains, ferries and buses.
Key Trends
This sector is highly dependent on travel/tourism, as well as consumers’
willingness to spend on discretionary events and experiences. Many operators
note that once a consumer decides to attend these events, they become much
more willing to splurge on food and beverage, and price becomes less of an
issue.
While general tourism was somewhat disappointing within the Republic of
Ireland, particularly during the summer, urban areas, in particular, had strong
years with significant concerts, sporting events and other events, which in turn
led to strong footfall and consumer spend. This has made this sector the bright
spot of the commercial foodservice landscape.
Some growth is being seen in competitive social outlets, which include activities
such as darts, bowling, table tennis, etc. (mostly in urban areas). These often
have strong food and beverage options for patrons who are engaged in the
activities. These tend to be frequented by younger consumers.
Republic of Ireland
⚫€315M in turnover
⚫€111M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 7.1% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
8.1% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=122
⚫2025 Index (F)=132
Northern Ireland
⚫€82M in turnover
⚫€29M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 6.0% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 6.6% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=114*
⚫2025 Index (F)=121*
42
97 114 122 132
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
49
96 105 114 121
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Institutional Sector Insights
45
Overview of Institutional Foodservice
The institutional side of the foodservice industry (sometimes
also referred to as noncommercial foodservice) includes food
offered as a service in businesses or institutions, where
providing food is not the primary focus of the organisation.
It includes food and beverage sold or offered in canteens and
other parts of the institution and incorporates a number of
subsegments, including traditional business and industry
(B&I)—both blue-collar and white-collar—as well as healthcare,
education and all other institutions (which encompasses mostly
government-run facilities for defence and prisons).
The total institutional segment in 2024 is valued at €937 million
in consumer spending. This includes both spending in the
Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, with spending in the
north converted back to euros.
The value of this segment increased by 15% in 2024. This has
been driven largely by government spending in the education
sector with the hot meal scheme, but the B&I sector also
continues to recover to pre-pandemic levels.
46
B&I
40%
Healthcare
29%
Education
26%
All
Other
5%
INSTITUTIONAL FOODSERVICE
TOTAL TURNOVER 2024
€937 Million
2023-2024 CHANGE: +15%
REVENUE CHANGE: €124 MILLION
B&I
42%
Healthcare
31%
Education
21%
All
Other
6%
INSTITUTIONAL FOODSERVICE
TOTAL TURNOVER 2023
€813 Million
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Business & Industry
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Business and industry is defined as catering to the workforce, including food offered
within offices, factories and remote sites. Menus are generally offered in three formats:
fixed menus (mostly in factories), self-service menus offering choice (mainly in office
catering units and canteens/cafeterias) and grab-and-go or vending operations offering
predominantly beverages, adjacent to their place of work.
Note that figures represent consumer spend value. Often contractors generate
significant revenues through facilities management (which has grown significantly) or
fees paid directly to them, which are excluded from the value shown.
Key Trends
The return-to-work challenge remains the biggest impediment to stronger growth in this
sector. Most operators note that many offices are largely two to three days per week,
with those days seeing sales at or above pre-pandemic levels, while the work-from-
home days mean empty offices and difficulty in generating foodservice sales.
Free-issue food tends to be on the rise as offices are using food as incentives to come
back into the office; subsidies are also common. There are also more events and larger
parties intended to generate team camaraderie.
Importantly, blue-collar locations, which include distribution depots, logistics hubs and
production facilities, remain strong and have gained share relative to the office/white-
collar side of the business.
Contract caterers report much more transparency with their client accounts. Given the
recent challenges with input prices, most operators look to provide early indicators on
looming challenges.
Business clients often have public sustainability goals, and this sector has seen the most
activity in terms of a focus on sustainability.
Republic of Ireland
⚫€293M in turnover
⚫€157M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 9.9% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
3.9% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=90
⚫2025 Index (F)=94
Northern Ireland
⚫€78M in turnover
⚫€41 in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 8.1% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 3.9% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=86*
⚫2025 Index (F)=89*
31
69 82 90 94
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
31
66 78 86 89
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 47
Healthcare Foodservice
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Hospitals are institutions that serve and feed patients undergoing medical
care, their guests and the staff. As a result, this sector encompasses a
wide variety of services to deliver food to its customers, including patient
feeding, cafeterias, kiosks and catered events.
This segment includes hospitals, rehab clinics and retirement homes. It is
further subclassified into private or public hospitals which, depending on
the rating, will offer different culinary experiences. The measure of value
here also excludes any facilities management fees or other nonfood-
related revenue sources.
Key Trends
These figures are largely dependent on the average census of patients or
residents within hospitals and care homes. This has been a fairly stable
segment over the past several years as a result, and many healthcare
facilities are reportedly back to operating at full/normal capacity.
Within hospitals, this also includes any a la carte feeding in cafeterias or
lobby kiosks. These areas have largely returned to a more normal sales
value with the full return of visitors and staffing.
These a la carte programmes often compete with nearby commercial
establishments, so there has been a continued investment to upgrade
coffee and food offers.
Ongoing consolidation of care homes has continued.
Republic of Ireland
⚫€169 in turnover
⚫€89M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.7% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
4.6% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=112
⚫2025 Index (F)=117
Northern Ireland
⚫€100M in turnover
⚫€52M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.1% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 4.5% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=110*
⚫2025 Index (F)=115*
91 99 107 112 117
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
93 101 104 110 115
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2024
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 48
Education Foodservice
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
Primary schools, secondary schools and colleges/universities (C&U) make up
the three key operator segments of the education sector.
These operators are in the business of providing food and beverage services to
students and faculty in their place of learning. Menus are generally offered in two
main formats—fixed menus or cafeteria/self-service—although a la carte
operations are also included.
The channel covers state, religious and privately funded and owned institutions.
Key Trends
This sector has seen a dramatic increase in spend at the primary school level
with the Republic of Ireland. The Department of Social Protection implemented a
pilot programme as far back as 2019 and had increased to supporting more than
1,600 schools by the end of the 2022-2023 school year.
For this current school year (2023-2024), there was a marked expansion with the
goal of providing every DEIS school with a hot meal programme and supported
by a budget of over €94 million. This has led to tremendous growth within
primary school food spending.
This education sector also includes C&U, and this sector has been a bit slower
to grow. Students often have options nearby campus, and the food offer has to
be compelling both from flavour and value perspectives. In some cases, prices
have been discounted to encourage students to remain on campus.
Republic of Ireland
⚫€169M in turnover
⚫€89M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 62.4% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
20.1% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=174
⚫2025 Index (F)=209
Northern Ireland
⚫€64M in turnover
⚫€34M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.5% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 4.6% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=112*
⚫2025 Index (F)=117*
53 96 107
174 209
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
54
102 105 112 117
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic 49
Other Institutional Operations
2024 Review and Analysis
Segment Definition
This channel includes government organisations, notably prisons and
armed forces (i.e., military messes, in-field canteens and soup kitchens).
Key Trends
These types of operations are generally immune from broader consumer
trends.
Most of this sector remains largely untouched by some of the broader
challenges that have been impacting the foodservice industry. The growth
and value is largely determined by the population that these institutions
serve and, as a result, the volumes tend volumes tend to remain much
steadier than other sectors.
Cost control remains the primary goal for these operators. Inflation has
been the largest key challenge but as food costs have moderated it has
become somewhat easier for those outlets to operate and feed their
populations. As has been shown in the past, growth here is less inflation-
driven and generally lower than other sectors due to their focus on cost
control and menu engineering that produces low-cost menu items.
50
*Note: Growth and indices are based on value in sterling, not a converted value to euro
Note: (P)=preliminary; (F)=forecast; ROI=Republic of Ireland; NI=Northern Ireland
Source: Bord Bia and Technomic
Republic of Ireland
⚫€38M in turnover
⚫€19M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 4.5% in
value in 2024
⚫Forecasted increase of
3.5% in value in 2025
⚫2024 Index=115
⚫2025 Index (F)=119
Northern Ireland
⚫€10M in turnover
⚫€5M in food and
beverage purchases
⚫Growth of 3.1% in
value in 2024*
⚫Forecasted increase in
value of 3.3% for
2025*
⚫2024 Index=111*
⚫2025 Index (F)=115*
101 104 110 115 119
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
ROI THROUGH 2025
99 105 106 111 115
2021 2022 2023 2024 (P) 2025 (F)
ANNUAL INDEX OF VALUE TO 2019
NI THROUGH 2025
Section Five
Appendix and Additional Data
Growth Rates of Gross Domestic Product
Republic of Ireland (ROI), Northern Ireland, U.K. and Eurozone Growth,
2023-2025
-5.5%
-0.3%
4.5%
-0.3%
1.1%
1.8%
0.3%
0.9%
1.5%
0.5%
0.8%
1.3%
2023
2024
2025
REAL GDP GROWTH BY YEAR
ANNUAL % CHANGE
Republic of Ireland
Northern Ireland
UK (All)
Euro Area
Source: EY European Economic Outlook October 2024 52
Unemployment Rate—ROI
January 2020-September 2024
4.9 4.8 4.9 4.7 5
5.7
6.8 7.2 7.3
6.4 6.2 6.2
6.9 7.3 7.7 7.5 7.1
6.4 5.8 5.4 5.2 5.3 5.3 5.1 54.6 4.9 4.5 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.3 4.2 4.4 4.5 4.4 4.3 4.2 4.1 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.5 4.4 4.5 4.5 4.1 4.2 4.4 4.4 4.5 4.7 4.4 4.3
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2021
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2022
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2023
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2024
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep 2024
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (%)
15-74 YEARS
Source: Central Statistics Office 53
Consumer Price Index—ROI
All Items
101.7
102.3
102.7
102.3
101.8
102.1
101.9
101.8
101.4
100.8
101.1
101.4
101.5
101.9
102.7
103.4
103.5
103.7
104.1
104.7
105.2
105.9
106.5
107.0
106.6
107.6
109.6
110.6
111.6
113.1
113.6
113.8
113.8
115.6
116.0
115.8
114.9 116.7
118.0
118.6
119.0
120.0
120.2
121.0
121.1 121.5
120.5
121.1
119.6
120.8
121.3
121.6
122.3
122.7
122.9
123.1
122
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2021
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2022
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2023
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2024
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep 2024
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX
JANUARY 2016=100
Base: 100=December 2016
Source: Central Statistics Office 54
Consumer Price Index—ROI
Restaurants and Hotels
106.9
107.6
108.1
108.7109110.5
109.9
110.2110.2
108.4
108.5
110.1
110.3
111111.5
111.9
112.2
112.4
113.3
113.9
113.2
112.8
112.7113112.8
113.4
115.5
117.5
118.8
120.3
121.8
122.2
121.8
121.3
121.3
122.1121
123.5
125.8127 129130.3
130.7
131.1
131.3
130.7
129.8
130.2
129.7
131.3
132.7
133.2
135.2136136.3
136.9
136.3
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2021
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2022
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2023
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2024
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep 2024
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX
DECEMBER 2016=100.0
Base: 100=December 2016
Source: Central Statistics Office 55
Consumer Price Index—ROI
Restaurants, Cafes, Fast Food and Takeaway
81.3
81.5
81.6
81.7
81.6
82.3
83
83
83.1
82.6
84.1
85.2
85.7
86
86.1
86.2
86.185.2
85.4
85.4
85.5
85.885.9
86.2
86.4
86.9
87.5
88.5
89.3
90.2
90.6
90.9
91.4 92 92.693.493.7
94.2
94.8
95.4
95.8 96.2
96.4
96.9
97.9
98.899.1100100.5
101.3
101.8
102.2
102.5
102.9
103.2
103.5
103.6
75
80
85
90
95
100
105
110
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2021
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2022
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2023
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2024
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep 2024
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX
BASE DECEMBER 2023=100
Base: 100=December 2016
Source: Central Statistics Office 56
Consumer Price Index—ROI
Food and Non-alcohol Beverage
96.196 95.896.196.2
95.6
95.8
95.4
94.8
94.8
94.8
94.7
94.194.2 95
95.4
95.295.3
95.8
95.5
95.2
95.695.7
96.2
96.1
97
97.998.799.4 101.7
103.2
103.9
104.6105.7
106.4
107.5
108.4
109.7
110.7
111.6
112
112.1
112.3
112.4
112.8
113.1
113.5113.5
113.3
114.1114114.7
114.9
114.7114.7114.7
114.9
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2021
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2022
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2023
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2024
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep 2024
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX
DECEMBER 2016=100.0
Base: 100=December 2016
Source: Central Statistics Office 57
Price Increases on Select Items—ROI
Comparison vs. Last Year and Pre-Pandemic
Item Cost as of
Sep 2024 Cost as of
Sep 2023 Cost as of
Sep 2019 One-Year
Change Four-Year
Change
Litre of Diesel €1.66 €1.81 €1.33 -8.3% 24.8%
Litre of Unleaded Petrol €1.73 €1.83 €1.43 -5.5% 21.0%
Fresh Salmon (Per Kilogram) €24.61 €24.35 €21.61 1.1% 13.9%
Ham Fillet (Per Kilogram) €6.74 €6.75 €5.53 -0.1% 21.9%
Striploin Steak (Per Kilogram) €23.61 €22.48 €20.58 5.0% 14.7%
Uncooked Chicken Medium (Per
Kilogram) €5.77 €5.81 €4.76 -0.7% 21.2%
Butter Per Pound €4.13 €3.74 €3.01 10.4% 37.2%
Draught Ale (Pint) €5.85 €5.67 €4.73 3.2% 23.7%
Source: Central Statistics Office 58
Airline Passengers—All Major Airports
January 2019-June 2023
2,353,991
4,040,594
25,286 98,127 1,097,626
3,608,290
2,361,406
3,811,920
Jan 2019
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2020
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2021
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2022
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan 2023
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun 2023
TOTAL PASSENGERS, ALL MAJOR AIRPORTS
(000s)
Source: Central Statistics Office 59
Tourism 2024
Overnight Visitors by Country of Residence
Category Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total
Overnight Foreign
Resident Visitors 2023 400.0 337.0 425.2 461.9 573.3 619.9 650.2 737.6 582.1 577.4 447.5 445.2 6,257.3
2024 451.9 433.3 521.8 549.1 622.3 669.5 655.4 763.6 4,666.9
Great Britain 2023 155.9 148.3 168.8 189.8 199.6 227.8 240.8 259.9 205.9 204.7 182.8 187.0 2,371.4
2024 191.2 199.0 199.5 210.8 217.2 227.4 211.3 272.5 1,728.9
Belgium, Netherlands
& Luxembourg 2023 21.7 12.6 13.1 22.8 23.1 24.8 21.1 33.2 21.2 22.6 21.4 23.6 261.2
2024 25.9 25.4 26.3 20.2 30.6 28.5 26.4 35.8 219.0
Denmark, Norway,
Sweden & Finland 2023 4.2 4.3 6.7 11.4 19.0 12.8 18.1 12.8 13.4 18.3 10.6 10.8 142.3
2024 10.5 9.5 11.2 15.3 16.9 19.2 16.4 12.8 111.8
France 2023 22.8 25.3 23.2 32.5 46.5 28.2 40.2 57.7 28.8 29.2 22.2 27.2 383.7
2024 21.5 21.2 28.7 36.6 41.4 39.4 41.3 56.3 286.4
Germany 2023 25.2 20.1 30.0 42.2 44.3 44.9 44.8 47.9 46.8 44.9 29.6 25.8 446.4
2024 26.2 21.9 34.0 40.0 46.3 43.4 49.4 56.5 317.8
Italy 2023 13.2 12.3 12.8 11.4 23.1 15.9 24.6 39.7 18.3 20.4 14.6 16.6 223.0
2024 22.0 14.3 20.8 22.4 19.6 16.2 29.0 31.4 175.7
Spain & Portugal 2023 27.0 20.7 23.9 21.3 17.7 21.1 25.3 43.8 32.8 35.5 26.4 38.2 333.8
2024 21.8 28.1 26.9 30.7 23.7 20.5 29.2 34.4 215.2
Other Europe 2023 46.4 33.6 36.4 31.1 53.4 35.8 40.3 38.4 35.9 30.4 35.1 32.6 449.4
2024 44.7 41.3 41.8 38.8 43.6 46.9 37.8 50.1 345.1
Australia & New
Zealand 2023 12.2 4.8 5.5 7.1 8.1 17.1 16.2 15.4 17.9 13.2 7.3 9.0 133.7
2024 10.9 4.1 5.2 8.1 11.7 13.3 17.6 16.9 88.0
Canada 2023 4.5 5.3 8.8 7.4 18.1 20.9 19.1 22.7 22.8 18.8 5.7 6.3 160.4
2024 6.4 5.6 11.5 16.4 23.5 26.4 24.6 24.5 138.8
U.S. 2023 46.5 36.2 81.2 74.0 105.4 148.2 141.3 142.6 117.4 122.1 75.1 53.3 1,143.3
2024 50.2 46.6 101.4 89.3 125.4 160.7 148.9 143.8 866.3
Other Residencies 2023 20.4 13.5 14.7 10.8 15.2 22.5 18.6 23.6 20.7 17.0 16.7 14.7 208.5
2024 20.5 16.3 14.4 20.6 22.6 27.7 23.4 28.6 174.0
Source: Central Statistics Office 60
Tourism 2024
Average Length of Stay by Nationality
AVERAGE LENGTH OF STAY IN IRELAND OF OVERNIGHT FOREIGN RESIDENT VISITORS BY AREA OF RESIDENCE NIGHTS
Area of
residence Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total
Overnight
Foreign
Resident
Visitors
2023 9.2 7.3 7.4 7.9 7.8 7.3 8.7 9.9 8.0 6.9 6.9 10.1 8.2
2024 8.4 6.2 6.0 6.4 7.2 7.3 8.1 8.7 7.4
Great Britain 2023 6.6 4.2 4.4 5.7 4.5 4.9 5.3 7.0 6.0 4.4 4.1 5.0 5.2
2024 5.6 3.8 4.0 4.7 4.8 4.5 4.9 6.6 4.9
Other Europe 2023 9.0 8.5 9.2 9.2 9.5 8.7 10.8 12.0 8.1 6.6 7.2 12.6 9.4
2024 8.6 6.5 6.6 6.2 7.5 8.5 8.7 9.5 7.9
U.S. & Canada 2023 9.5 7.6 7.4 9.1 8.4 8.2 8.6 8.6 7.9 8.3 8.7 13.4 8.6
2024 10.3 8.7 6.9 8.6 8.4 7.8 8.7 9.0 8.4
Other
Residencies
2023 22.3 21.8 19.9 14.8 16.5 10.9 19.7 20.8 18.1 18.1 19.9 23.9 18.7
2024 21.4 19.8 14.0 11.7 14.6 14.2 18.5 15.6 16.2
Source: Central Statistics Office 61
Section Six
Methodology
Glossary of Terms
Term Definition
Business & Industry (B&I) Includes foodservice operations within company and corporation locations, office complexes, plants, factories, etc. Note that this
includes both white- and blue-collar office locations, including logistics hubs, production facilities and factories, etc.
CAGR Compound annual growth rate: The average sales increase over a specified number of years incorporating compound growth
Cash-and-Carry A large outlet where foodservice operators and small retailers can come to purchase supplies
Commercial Foodservice Channels where catering for profit is the prime objective
Consumer Spending Consumer spending accounts for spending by diners within all foodservice channels
Contract The direct supply of products to trade customers that buy centrally. Also known as “wheels only” in view of distributors that provide
logistic support (delivery) but do not buy or sell
C-Store Convenience store where hot food or food on the go is sold to eat and take away
Customer The person to whom the supplier sells, usually the distributor or the operator, although the ultimate customer is the consumer
Delivered Wholesale Supply of product to outlets via wholesaler delivery vans, often on a daily basis
Direct Where operators buy from markets, producers or farmers direct rather than through intermediaries such as wholesalers
Fast-Casual Restaurant (FCR) A subset of limited-service restaurants. Menus may feature prepared to order items. Menu items are typically made with fresh,
high-quality ingredients. Price point is between quick-service and full-service venues
Foodservice Channel The acknowledged grouping of foodservice outlets by type (each of the main channels is defined separately)
Food to Go Includes premade, ready-to-eat menu items sold through various retail channels and consumed off-premise
Forecourt Convenience Convenience-store operations that are integrated with a fuel forecourt
63
Glossary of Terms
Term Definition
Full-Service Restaurant (FSR) Restaurants that offer table service and waiting staff
Hotel & Accommodations Hotels and resorts that are primarily engaged in providing short-term lodging. Establishments may offer food and beverage
services including restaurants, bars, conference services, catering services, banquet services, complimentary breakfast/snacks
and room service
Institutional foodservice Often known as cost catering, channels where catering is a service provided for free or with a subsidy
IOI Island of Ireland
Limited-Service Restaurant (LSR) Restaurants offering counter service where customers generally order or select items and pay before eating
Occasion The meal reason for visiting a foodservice outlet (e.g., breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, snack etc.). This can also be referred to as
a “daypart”
Operator The company or business running the foodservice outlet or chain of outlets
Operator Purchases Operator purchases represent the value of distributors’ sales to operators, including distributors’ margins
Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) A subset of limited-service restaurants, often with value price orientation
Route to Market How to get the product to the end consumer. Involves distribution and logistics
Traffic The number of consumers visiting a foodservice outlet. Also known as footfall, it is a key operator metric
White-Tablecloth Restaurant White-tablecloth restaurants, a subsegment of the full-service restaurant channel representing the more traditional and premium
restaurant outlets
64
Macroeconomic Factors
Term Definition
Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
and Gross National Product
(GNP)
The monetary value of all the finished goods and services produced within a country's borders in a specific time period, though
GDP is usually calculated on an annual basis. It includes all of private and public consumption, government outlays, investments
and exports less imports that occur within a defined territory. GDP is commonly used as an indicator of the economic health of a
country, as well as to gauge a country's standard of living
Unemployment Rates Represents the share of the labour force that is employed. The employment rate is one of the economic indicators that economists
examine to help understand the state of the economy
Consumer Price Index (CPI)—All
Items An index of the variation in prices paid by typical consumers for retail goods and other items
Consumer Price Index (CPI)—
Food and
Nonalcohol Beverages An index of the variation in prices paid by typical consumers for food and nonalcohol beverages
Consumer Price Index (CPI)—
Restaurants and Hotels An index of the variation in prices paid by typical consumers for foodservice items purchased at restaurants and hotels
Overseas Arrivals to Ireland Data on the number of visitors to the Republic of Ireland for each year through August 2024. Tourism is a key metric that will have
an outsized impact on Ireland’s foodservice industry
65
MARKET MODELLING PROCESS
Clean, Tabulate,
Analyse Data by
Segment
Compare to
Previous Industry
Figures
Analyse
Government and
Other Economic
Figures
Assess Data to
Determine Initial
Market Growth
Estimates
Confirm Growth
Figures
Review
Additional Data
Final
Determination
of Market
Metrics and
Report
Preparation
TRADE
INTERVIEWS
INPUT INTO TECHNOMIC’S MARKET
MODEL
Industry
Performance?
Areas of Growth/
Decline?
Usage Change?
Business
Factors?
Market Modelling Approach and
Methodology
For calendar-year 2024 and to project sales for calendar-year 2025,
Technomic’s forecasting model is built on a month-by-month evaluation of
the sales level for that month against the same month of the previous
year. This is also compared to the baseline of 2019. Input for these
models come from primary interviews along with available secondary
information from the Central Statistics Office and other sources where
available.
This creates an index of recovery, where reaching a level of 100 means
that 2019 revenue levels have been achieved. Throughout this report,
industry recovery is reported not only in nominal (i.e., value) growth
figures, but also using an index comparing results to 2019.
The modeling accounts for the varying levels of sales from month to
month based on broader industry research conducted for this report.
Seasonality is built into the modeling as well to account for variations in
turnover from month to month. Various historical and forecast inputs are
employed in the model and are drawn from industry inputs and prior
research. Assumptions for each scenario have built-in regional differences
and expectations.
Using all of the above, Technomic experts and analysts evaluate the
outputs of the model for reasonability and, if necessary, revise the
modeling and weighting of different inputs based on unique macro
circumstances
This illustration outlines key steps in Technomic’s market-sizing and
forecasting process for the foodservice industry and specific segments in
both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. 66
Technomic is uniquely qualified to conduct this assignment. Since 1966,
Technomic has been assisting clients with interests in the global food and
beverage industries to obtain a better understanding of the marketplace and
potential opportunities.
Technomic is considered to be the leading research and consulting firm
specialising in the foodservice or out-of-home (OOH) industry and is active
in numerous international OOH markets. Technomic’s broad-based
expertise and second-to-none knowledge of the OOH channels and
categories, establishes us as an industry leader in this growing marketplace.
In May 2023, Technomic and its then-parent company Winsight were
acquired by Informa PLC, a British conglomerate with verticals across food
and numerous other industries—a global leader in events and education
with a true global reach. Informa Connect provides customers and
audiences access to the most credible source of industry market intelligence
with top industry print and digital media assets, world-class events and
insights.
Technomic now sits within Informa’s InformaConnect division and is the
research arm of the Foods Service vertical. With this investment by Inform,
Technomic continues to be positioned as the leader in multiple facets of the
global foodservice industry. With our new relationship with and among
Informa, Technomic will continue to provide insights to its clients and will fuel
content among InformaConnect’s many events and media properties.
About
Technomic
