Budget 2027 must deliver a reduction in business costs, says RGDATA
In its recently published Budget 2027 submission, the group urges Government to deliver on its Programme for Government commitment
Print9 July 2026
Budget 2027 must deliver measures that deliver a meaningful reduction in business costs, RGDATA has said.
In its recently published Budget 2027 submission, the group which represents over 3,000 family owned and run independent food shops urges Government to deliver on its Programme for Government commitment and the many public comments by the Taoiseach and Senior Ministers that this Government will reduce the cost of doing business.
Specifically, RGDATA calls for the full and timely implementation of the Cost of Business Advisory Forum Report and for the recommendations from that Report which require budgetary measures to be implemented in Budget 2027.
Cost of Business Forum
In a statement, Tara Buckley, director general, RGDATA, said: “This is essential given the emphasis this Government has put on the establishment of the Cost of Business Forum and commentary from the Taoiseach and senior ministers that the work of the Forum will be recognised and acted upon.
“If Budget 2027 does not enact the budgetary measures identified in the Cost of Business Advisory Forum Report 2027, then the commitments in the Programme for Government on business costs and the comments of the Taoiseach and senior Ministers will be counted as purely aspirational and worthless in practical terms.”
Targeted measures
Convenience/grocery shops are labour intensive operations.
Labour costs are increasing year on year primarily due to Government led interventions in the labour market through the imposition of minimum wage rates, statutory changes to terms and conditions of employment.
For example, National Minimum Wage has increased by nearly €3.95 per hour since 2021 from €10.20 to €14.15.
This is an increase of nearly 39% and has put huge pressure on its members, both in terms of direct pay costs, but also other rates that are based on relativity.
Increases in the National Minimum Wage come on top of increases in sick pay and the costs of auto enrolment.
At the same time as having to fund the higher employment costs, employers also face an additional direct pay related increased cost through Employers PRSI.
The RGDATA submission also calls for measures to address employment costs, insurance costs and reducing the red tape burden on independent convenience/grocery stores by 30%.
Read more: RGDATA appoints Roseanne Regan as new director general
© 2026 by ShelfLife reporter
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