President’s Report – September 2025

Dear Members,

Welcome to your September newsletter.

August has been another very busy month for our lobbying efforts, with Budget 2026 now just five short weeks away. The pressure is intensifying.

In response to recent commentary questioning the need for the 9% VAT rate, we commissioned independent economic research led by economist Anthony Foley. This work culminated in a comprehensive report, which we launched two weeks ago. The findings are clear: food services are in decline and the case for reinstating the 9% VAT rate for food-led businesses is both necessary and justified.

Our position has not changed. The 9% VAT rate was a commitment made in the Programme for Government and has been consistently reaffirmed to us by Ministers. There can be no backtracking on this promise. This must be reinstated on the 1st of January 2026.

While Adrian, myself and the team continue to lobby strongly on your behalf, it is essential that you, our members, make your voices heard. Please continue to contact your local TD or Senator and explain why the reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate matters to your business. Share your story. Let them know the challenges you face in keeping your doors open in today’s climate. Hearing directly from you will make the biggest impact.

We must remain united and vocal in our call for the 9% VAT rate to be reinstated. It is one of the most effective measures available to support our sector at this critical time.

As always, if you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the team. We are here to support you.