Dublin: Over 40% of Dublin pubs serving food say they will cut staff if the lower VAT rate is postponed until 2026, according to a Licensed Vintners Association survey. Ten percent may stop serving food entirely.
Sales Decline Since VAT Hike
More than half of food-serving pubs report lower sales since the VAT rate increase in September 2023, with nearly 20% seeing drops over 10%. Lunch orders have fallen most sharply (62%), followed by desserts (34%), dinners (28%), and breakfasts (22%).
Seventy percent have reduced menu items, with 52% dropping steak, 26% seafood, and 17% roast dishes due to rising costs.
Ninety-two percent want the VAT rate restored to 9% from Budget Day, and 96% want it made permanent. Only 8% support waiting until January 2026.
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