More than 200,000 jobs are dependent on the drinks and hospitality sector, a new report has found

Research by DCU economist Tony Foley, commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland, detailed hospitality sector employment and found the combined drinks and hospitality sector supports 204,000 jobs across Ireland.

The report highlights the increase in craft breweries and distilleries, with 57 breweries and distilleries now operating across Ireland.

The research was launched as part of the Support Your Local campaign which is backed and funded by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland.

Key driver

Mr Foley said the national economic impact of the drinks industry and wider hospitality sector is “substantial”.

“Of note is the fact that the drinks industry and wider hospitality sector makes a significant contribution to the economic life of towns and villages outside of urban centres. This is supported by the vast network of pubs, restaurants, hotels and independent off-licences which have a presence in every constituency across Ireland. One key driver for growth in the drinks industry is craft – with a huge increase in the number of breweries and distilleries opening across Ireland in recent years,” he said.

Michael Storan, Campaign Manager for Support Your Local, said the “huge increase” in distilleries and breweries indicates the changing nature of the drinks and hospitality industry.

The research was launched as part of the Support Your Local campaign which is supported and funded by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland.