President’s Report – July 2026

Dear Members,

Welcome to your July newsletter.

This month marks a hugely significant milestone for Ireland’s food-led hospitality sector with the permanent return of the 9% VAT rate. It follows one of the most challenging periods our industry has ever faced. Over recent years, we have sadly seen friends and colleagues forced to close their businesses despite years of hard work and dedication.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland fought a determined campaign to secure the restoration of the 9% VAT rate, and together we achieved that goal. This success is a testament to the leadership of our CEO, Adrian Cummins, the commitment of the RAI team, and, most importantly, the unwavering support of our members. Every member played a vital role in this campaign, and this achievement belongs to all of us.

The return of the 9% VAT rate will provide much needed breathing space for businesses across the country and help safeguard jobs and livelihoods. While this is a major victory, our work is far from over. We will continue to advocate on your behalf, ensuring the hospitality sector has the conditions it needs not only to survive, but to thrive.

Our members are at the heart of everything we do. Your support strengthens the Association and gives us the collective voice needed to deliver meaningful change. The successful campaign to restore the 9% VAT rate demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together. Thank you for your continued support and for the trust you place in the Restaurants Association of Ireland.

I would also like to acknowledge and thank those across the Oireachtas who supported the campaign. We are grateful to those in Government, as well as representatives from across the political spectrum, who recognised the importance of Ireland’s food-led hospitality sector and backed the return of the 9% VAT rate.

As always, if we can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the team.

Yours sincerely,

Yours sincerely,
Seán Collender
President