Business confidence across Dublin strengthened in the second quarter of 2026, according to Dublin Chamber's Q2 Business Outlook Survey, with almost half of businesses reporting greater confidence about their prospects over the year ahead.
The survey of more than 250 businesses from across the Greater Dublin Area found that 47% of respondents are more confident about their business performance than they were at the same point last year, up significantly from 34% in Q1 2026. Commenting on the findings, Aebhric McGibney, Director of Public and International Affairs at Dublin Chamber, said:
"It is encouraging to see confidence levels improving across Dublin's business community. Firms are continuing to invest, innovate and plan for growth despite a challenging operating environment”.
“The survey also highlights the many competitiveness challenges that continue to impact businesses across the region. Transport disruption, energy security concerns, difficulties accessing talent and the rising cost of doing business remain significant issues that require sustained policy attention."
While confidence levels have improved, businesses continue to report concerns around energy costs and security of supply, with more than half of respondents indicating moderate or high levels of concern. Respondents also highlighted the potential impact that further increases in energy costs could have on investment and expansion plans.
Transport disruption remains a significant challenge for firms operating across Dublin. Almost half of respondents reported that congestion, road closures and public transport issues have had a moderate or significant impact on their operations, with staff commuting challenges emerging as the most common consequence.
The survey also found that attracting and retaining talent remains difficult for many employers, with 44% of respondents reporting challenges filling vacancies.
Innovation continues to be a key priority for businesses, with more than four in five respondents stating that innovation is important to their future growth. The findings also highlight the accelerating adoption of AI, with 38% of firms reporting to already be using AI within specific functions or departments, while 23% are piloting AI initiatives and a further 15% have embedded the technology across multiple areas of their business.
McGibney added: "The findings reinforce the importance of maintaining a relentless focus on competitiveness. Businesses recognise Dublin's strengths and remain optimistic about future opportunities, but there is no room for complacency.
"Continued investment in transport, energy and other critical infrastructure will be essential if Dublin is to remain an attractive location for investment, support sustainable economic growth and enhance its competitiveness on the international stage."
Dublin Chamber's Q2 2026 Business Outlook Survey gathered responses from more than 250 businesses across the Dublin region between April and May 2026.
Contact Information
Stephen Browne
Head of Public Affairs
Dublin Chamber
085 710 3329
stephen@dublinchamber.ie
About Dublin Chamber: Dublin Chamber is Ireland’s largest chamber of commerce with over 1000 member companies. It is the most representative and broadly-based business group in the Greater Dublin Area, providing representation and networking services. Its policy work focuses on developing the Dublin region’s infrastructure & transport, promoting competitiveness, and improving local governance. Dublin Chamber is also one of the oldest chambers of commerce in the world, tracing its origins back to 1782.