New research conducted by Red C Research on Guaranteed Irish members reveals strong business confidence, with 89% expecting their business to grow over the next 12 months. However, rising costs remain a significant challenge, with 74% reporting that energy and utility costs are impacting their competitiveness.
These findings highlight that while Irish businesses are embracing technological advancements, strengthening local supply chains and recognising the value of the Guaranteed Irish symbol in driving growth, significant challenges remain, particularly around rising operating costs and the need for greater business supports.
Key Findings:
Cost of doing business remains the top priority
74% reporting that energy and utility costs are impacting their competitiveness.
Strong value in the Guaranteed Irish Symbol
92% of members actively use the Guaranteed Irish licence, with 65% reporting a positive impact on attracting and retaining employees.
Financial benefits of membership
57% of members say their Guaranteed Irish licence has helped their business financially.
Local supply chains remain important
82% of members say working with sustainable, local supply chains within Ireland is important, while almost half use other members' supply chains.
AI adoption driving business growth
73% of members adopted AI or automation in the past 12 months, with 72% identifying benefits across areas such as marketing, operations and customer service.
Irish and EU sourcing a strategic priority
77% of members say sourcing in Ireland or the EU is important or critically important to their strategy over the next one to two years, reflecting a focus on supporting local jobs and strengthening supply chain resilience.
Bríd O’Connell, CEO of Guaranteed Irish, said: “Sourcing from trusted Irish suppliers helps businesses build resilient supply chains, strengthen the domestic economy and develop lasting relationships that support quality and sustainability. These connections are vital to Ireland’s long-term competitiveness. With 57% of our members reporting that having and using the Guaranteed Irish licence has helped their business financially, the commercial value of demonstrating a commitment to supporting Ireland is clear.”
Interested in becoming a member of Guaranteed Irish? Contact us today!
Guaranteed Irish, Supporting Business that Supports Ireland