Exports in the food and sustainability sector increased by 23% in 2022, reaching €16.2 billion, according to Enterprise Ireland.
This is the highest-ever level of growth for Enterprise Ireland, supported companies in the food and sustainability sector, which, in 2022, accounted for 50% of exports by Enterprise Ireland-supported companies.
The figures were highlighted today (31 May), as more than 200 senior leaders from the food and sustainability sector and key industry stakeholders attended Enterprise Ireland’s flagship Food Innovation Summit in Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork.
The event is the first dedicated Food Innovation Summit to take place in Ireland and will turn the spotlight on the innovation capability within the Irish food industry and the strength of Ireland’s food research ecosystem.
Leo Clancy, CEO, Enterprise Ireland, commented, “The significant 2022 export results for the sector are a testament to the innovation and resilience of the Irish food industry.
“While the record year-on-year increase in exports for the sector is influenced by inflation, most notably in the dairy industry, these very positive results demonstrate the continued strength of Irish food products and services in global markets.”
Employment
Food and sustainability sector companies now account for 29% of total employment in Enterprise Ireland-supported companies.
The group highlighted that, in 2022, 63,858 people – an increase of 3% on 2021 figures – were employed in companies that Enterprise Ireland supports in the food and sustainability sector.
These companies spent €209 million on R&D activities in 2022, Enterprise Ireland added.
Some 170 companies operating in the sector spent €100,000 or more on R&D activities in 2022.
The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, added, “Irish food businesses are a key contributor to the Irish economy, supporting thousands of jobs and delivering sustainable prosperity throughout Ireland.
“The sustainable growth of the food sector in Ireland hinges on increased investment in innovation, and the government is committed to assisting Irish businesses in that vision.”
Read More: Exports Of Goods Decrease By €1.4bn In March 2023, Year On Year
© 2023 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. For more A-brand news, click here. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
