Sentiment in Irish tourism industry at highest levels in years
A new survey by Fáilte Ireland paints a positive picture for the tourism sector.
Fáilte Ireland's Autumn Tourism Barometer shows 84% of hotels and 76% of guest houses reporting increased business this summer, compared to 2015.
A total of 600 tourism businesses were surveyed for the poll.
It found general sentiment in the industry at the highest levels in years.
Some 72% of businesses were positive about the outlook for the sector.
Speaking about the results, Fáilte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn today said: "As expected, tourism businesses across the country had another successful summer and with many recording their best season ever.
"Yet, we must keep our eye on the factors underpinning our growth – compelling visitor experiences, increased carrier capacity and a favourable exchange rate with the US Dollar - and avoid strategies which in time could undermine our current reputation for good value."
There are still some concerns within the sector.
While operating costs (excluding fuel and energy) continue to be mentioned by 39% of enterprises as an issue, the new challenge of ‘Brexit’ now features as the most common concern for the future within the industry at the moment, mentioned by 44% of businesses.
This concern is reflected in the fact that only about one in four (27%) of paid serviced accommodation providers expect growth from Britain over the next few months despite the fact that almost half (47%) experienced more British business so far this year.
Existing concerns about Brexit centre around uncertainty with regard to the implications of the vote and the current impact of the situation on exchange rates.
