Media Coverage – September 2024

612 food-led hospitality businesses close since VAT hike – RAI

A total of 612 restaurants, cafes, gastropubs and other food serving hospitality businesses have closed over the last year, research from the Restaurants Association of Ireland has found.

VAT Rate in Ireland Initiative | A Collaborative Effort for the Future of Hospitality

The VAT 9 campaign, championed by the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI), is focused on addressing the significant financial hurdles faced by the hospitality industry. With a decisive objective, the RAI advocates for a reduced VAT rate in the 2025 Budget to bolster the sustainability of this essential sector.

Another leading Dublin restaurant closes its doors

The Restaurants’ Association of Ireland estimates that 577 outlets have closed in the 11 months to the end of July. Adrian Cummins, its CEO, said the group met last week with Finance Minister Jack Chambers and Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe to make the case for a reduction on the Vat rate for food to 9pc in next month’s Budget.

Restaurant closures: “We’re in last era of things being cheap”

Food and travel content creator Éadaoin Fitzmaurice speaks to restaurant owner Eamon De Freitas of AA’s Caribbean about why so many restaurants are closing in Ireland, and what we can do to help.