Some 80% of business owners in Ireland’s foodservice industry, estimated to be worth €6 billion, are confident that their business will grow in 2015.
The findings were revealed in a study by Pallas Foods. The study also found that an additional 45% of business owners from the industry are intending to create new employment this year.
According to the report, this increased optimism stems from a number of developments within both the economy and the food industry. These include an increase in customers’ disposable income and new food offerings that have arisen in response to changing demands.
The study also found that over 70% of business owners were committed to using Irish ingredients on their menus, with almost a third (29%) using between 40 and 60% Irish produce on their menu.
One of the biggest changes in customer demands included the move to gluten-free, with over half (53%) of owners surveyed highlighting that their customers were requesting gluten-free menu options.
Peter Foley, Executive Vice President of Pallas Foods, said, “This confidence is based on the recovery that is happening, but is also related to the rate of innovation and change that is happening in the sector, all of which is geared to meet the growing needs and sophistication of Irish consumers.”
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Hannah Popham.
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