Retail Ireland Monitor September 2024

While the economy is performing well, with strong employment numbers and tax returns, retail has yet to feel the full effects. Consumer sentiment has improved over the last two years, but only incrementally, and it remains below historical levels. Real income growth, the return of low inflation, further interest rate falls, and the prospect of tax cuts in the budget should support sentiment in the run-up to Christmas, but consumers remain somewhat wary. 2024 has been a tougher year than many anticipated.