The increase in range, diversity and quality of food in Irish pubs is underlined by a new report that reveals €1,353bn is spent on food in pubs annually.

The 2017 Irish Foodservice Channel Insights Report released by Bord Bia states that the value of Irish foodservice market (food purchased for consumption outside the home) is now at a record €7.8billion in 2017 for the island of Ireland.

Consumer spending in pubs (excluding alcohol) accounts for 17% or €1,353bn of the market value and is showing a lower year on year growth rate than the overall market attributed in part to Brexit which has decreased weekend trips and holiday visits to Ireland by UK travellers.

The two segments showing the biggest share gain are the hotel segment, accounting for 17% of total foodservice consumer spending and the coffee shops and cafes which now account for 6%.

The report, which also tracks consumer behaviour and sentiment when eating away from home, highlights that take away, or grab-and-go concepts, are one of the key drivers of foodservice growth and that healthier foods are trending and influencing menu ideation.

Over one third (35%) of consumer spend is found in Limited Service Restaurants*, which incorporates quick-service restaurants, fast-casual dining and food-to-go, with 12% attributed to Full Service Restaurants.

Maureen Gahan, Foodservice Specialist in Bord Bord says: “We’re delighted to report that the sector remains on track to grow at a compound rate of 4.9% and to reach a value of €9 billion by 2020. Ireland has started to become known as a “food destination” and much of the investment operators have made in quality and service upgrades have helped fuel the foodservice growth witnessed in the island of Ireland (IOI)”.

• Other findings in the report include outlets focusing on provenance are finding success in labelling menu items as “fresh” and “local which are often associated with “better for you” items.
• Coffee shops and cafes maintain their position as the fastest growing sector, and the investment in beverage has been seen across all segments as operators strive to provide High Street level coffee and beverage programmes to their guests. Flat whites are this year’s trending coffee beverage.
• There are over 33,000 food outlets in Ireland