According to industry reports, a wave of closures has swept over 200 cafes and restaurants this year. The industry points to a confluence of cost hikes in food, energy, and wages that have arrived at a time when the general public is also grappling with the rising cost of living.
Are you aware of these recent closures in your local area? Has the escalating cost of everyday items impacted your habit of grabbing a takeaway coffee or having a casual meal out? Do you perceive that these eateries are exploiting the situation to hike prices or simply adjusting to their financial reality? How would you rate the quality of food and service in your nearby establishments?
If you’re an eatery owner trying to navigate this tough terrain, we’d love to hear your insights. What are the key challenges you’re facing and the type of assistance you’d appreciate in this climate?
We’re interested in hearing from under 30s too. How does your current living situation influence your wellbeing? Are you optimistic about what lies ahead?
The Restaurants Association of Ireland highlights the increasing minimum wage, additional annual leave, and the imminent implementation of auto-enrolled pensions as contributing factors to expenses.
Do you believe the government should step in to rescue the restaurant sector potentially through measures such as a VAT rate cut? To what extent do you consider the existence of cafes and restaurants vital to both the economy and societal fabric of Irish towns and cities?