Growth Industries in Ireland to Watch in 2025

Ireland’s economy is bucking trends seen elsewhere in Europe. It is expected to grow by 3.6% in 2025, rebounding from a tough few years. As a newly founded technological hub for Europe and beyond, the country is starting to feel the long-term economic benefits, with industries outside of information and tech starting to grow. In the article below, we discuss growth industries to watch in 2025.

Gaming Industry

Ireland currently has a total of 22 studios that develop games or related software. For example, one of the most famous, Havok Studios, creates physics engines for use in other games but does not create titles themselves. Studios range from large global brands all the way to indie developers like Spooky Doorway.

It is not just PC and console game developers that exist here, either. Many are focused on the casual gaming market, which involves free-to-play titles for mobiles. Another niche is the online gaming sector, creating games for casinos. This industry is huge, both in Ireland and beyond. One review site, Bonusfinder in Ireland, ranks and reviews operators based on their game selection, customer service, and welcome bonuses. With so many available, it is easy to see how well countries can do by producing complex slot and table games.

It is unlikely the gaming sector is one that shows any sign of slowing down in the near future. This will create a steady and sustainable income for years to come and continue to attract top talent to the region.

Energy

In the last few years, Ireland has put some ambitious goals in place for its energy sector. This makes a lot of sense for the country. It is currently a net importer of energy, with around 81.6% of its energy needs imported, one of the highest levels in Europe. Around 85.8% of its energy requirements are also based on fossil fuels.

The country is aiming to reach net-zero by 2025 and 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, as stated by SEAI. So far, just over 8% of its energy comes from wind, solar, and other renewables. This means the sector needs to increase vastly, and the right money is pouring into it from the government and the private sector.

Drinks Manufacturing

Food and drink manufacturing is quite substantial in Ireland, with the drink industry being quite a large operation. This ranges from soft drinks to beverages aimed at more mature audiences. All of this serves the country’s large hospitality industry. It is such a vast network that the trade even has its own publications and media in the country.

Like most countries, Coca-Cola has a base in Ireland. However, it is surprising how many other beverage manufacturers call Ireland home. From Monster Energy to Britvic, Lipton, and beyond. There are also a whole host of independent manufacturers based in Dublin and smaller cities and towns. It is estimated that the industry was worth around €10.2bn in 2024 alone.

There are many other manufacturers and companies based in Ireland. All contribute to the economy, and as the country continues to grow, this can only make the standard of living better for those in Wexford and beyond.