Food and Drink manufacturers ‘facing ongoing cost pressures’
According to Food Drink Ireland, the underlying cost base for Irish food processors remains elevated
Print19 May 2026
Food and Drink manufacturers are facing ongoing cost pressures, the latest Business Monitor by Food Drink Ireland shows.
Food Drink Ireland latest data published today (19 May) highlights the continued challenges facing Ireland’s food and drink manufacturing sector, as global and domestic price indicators point to a worsening inflationary environment.
According to the Ibec group representing the food and drink sector, the underlying cost base for Irish food processors remains elevated, driven by persistent volatility in global commodity markets, escalating energy costs, and sustained pressure on agricultural inputs.
The latest data from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) shows that the overall FAO Food Price Index has reached its highest level since early 2023.
Cost pressures
Paul Kelly, director, Food Drink Ireland said that cost pressures facing manufacturers included:
- Elevated input costs for raw materials, energy and transport
- Continued volatility in packaging inputs
- Lag effects between input cost increases and wholesale price adjustments
Pressure on margins
Commenting on the current environment, Kelly noted that reality for food and drink manufacturers is one of escalating costs and pressure on margins.
“Global commodity markets continue to be volatile, agricultural inputs remain elevated, consumer sentiment is dropping, and businesses are operating in a highly competitive international environment,” he added.
“Ensuring that Ireland’s food processing sector remains competitive will require a continued focus on managing input costs and supporting investment across the supply chain.”
© 2026 by ShelfLife reporter
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