Survey reveals the three most significant barriers for Irish SMEs in 2025 [Video]

Rising costs, labour shortages and employee retention remain the most significant barriers for Irish SMEs as we enter 2025, according to a survey of 6,400 Irish businesses from diverse industries.

Peninsula Ireland released its latest global survey highlighting the pressing challenges that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face as they prepare for the new year.

SMEs (<250 persons employed) in Ireland accounted for 99.8% of all enterprises and 68% of people employed in 2022.

More than two-fifths (43%) of total turnover and 41% of (GVA) was attributed to these enterprises, meaning they are key to the Irish economy.

With 64% of participants based outside of Dublin and the majority employing fewer than 50 staff, the findings provide a vital snapshot of concerns among Ireland’s economic backbone.

Key Findings:

• Rising Costs:43% of SMEs identified escalating costs — including recruitment expenses, payroll increases, and the cost of living — as their top concern, with 26% prioritising survival as their biggest goal in the current …