Ireland’s foodservice industry is transforming, mirroring the broader economic and social trends in the country. Within this dynamic market, the fast-food sector experienced robust growth in 2024. Meaningful Vision’s careful monitoring and analysis of the 60 leading foodservice chains in Ireland, reveals key insights for operators and identifies important trends, in outlet growth, shifts in customer traffic, and emerging opportunities within Ireland’s fast-food market.
A High Concentration of Outlets
As of December 2024, the Republic of Ireland boasts a higher concentration of fast-food outlets per capita (28.7 per 100,000 people) than Northern Ireland (22.4) and the rest of the UK (27.6). Dublin leads the nation with 54 outlets per 100,000 residents, exceeding even London’s 49.2, while Belfast has the lowest density at 39.9. Dublin’s robust economy, fuelled by international businesses and a high percentage of tourists, likely contributes to this density.
Ireland’s foodservice sector comprises approximately 7,500 restaurants and fast-food locations. Chains account for roughly 1,500 of these, representing about 20% of all restaurants and fast-food locations and generating 40% of total visits. Apache Pizza, Insomnia Coffee, and Costa Coffee are the largest chains in Ireland by outlet count.
Chain owned fast-food stores in Ireland grew in number by 3%year-over-year in December 2024, with growth observed across the burger and pizza segments, followed by chicken, and coffee segments also reporting growth. This contrasts with trends seen recently in the UK, where chicken fast-food has been the fastest-growing segment (+12% outlets vs. +5% for all fast food, and a remarkable +30% over the past four years). It is unclear if the emerging demand for fast-food chicken seen in the UK will replicate itself in Ireland. For the burger market however, Wendy’s anticipated arrival in 2025, is very likely to intensify competition.
Burger Dominance and Traffic Growth
Fast-food burgers currently dominate footfall traffic among Irish chains, accounting for over a third of the total, followed by coffee shops and pizza. The overall number of fast-food visits in Ireland as measured by footfall traffic data increased by 5% in the last quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, with the strongest growth in burgers and pizza, translating to a 2% or greater like-for-like growth, indicating more visits per store.
This positive trend contrasts sharply with the UK, where fast-food saw no growth and even experienced declining L4L sales in 2024. However, this divergence aligns with consumer spending trends: UK spending increased by only 1% in Jan-Sep 2024, while Ireland saw a 4% rise, according to Trading Economics.
Seizing the Morning: Daypart Trends in Irish Quick Service Dining
Analysis of daypart traffic shows notable shifts in customer behaviour in Ireland’s fast food sector. While the overall share of morning traffic saw a slight decrease in Q4 2024 compared to Q4 2023, dropping from 13% to 11%, a deeper dive reveals a more complex picture. Specifically, the mid-morning period (9 am-12 pm) experienced a 2% decline, suggesting a potential shift away from late morning visits.
However, the lunchtime and afternoon segments saw growth. The period between 12 pm and 3 pm increased by 2%, while the 3 pm to 6 pm window saw a 3% rise, indicating a stronger preference for midday and afternoon dining. Evening traffic also saw a minor uptick, with the early evening segment growing by 1%. These trends highlight the importance of understanding specific daypart performance and tailoring strategies to capitalise on peak traffic times.
Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
Ireland’s fast-food market is undergoing rapid changes, driven by a mix of global trends and local dynamics. With burgers leading the way and chicken chains staking a claim, the sector offers significant opportunities for growth. At the same time, understanding traffic patterns and consumer behaviour will be essential for operators looking to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
Maria Vanifatova, Founder and CEO of Meaningful Vision Ltd, concludes, “The Irish fast-food market, with its high outlet density and evolving daypart trends, presents a dynamic mix of opportunities and challenges. The growth of burger chains and the potential for chicken offerings highlight the need for strategic innovation. Data shows a nuanced shift in customer behaviour, with Q4 morning traffic slightly down, but lunchtime and afternoon segments growing. Understanding these daypart trends is crucial for targeted strategies.”
More on foodservice trends in Ireland in our Blog.
