Almost half of Dublin businesses are more optimistic about their prospects than they were a year ago, according to Dublin Chamber’s Q2 Business Outlook Survey, despite continuing concerns over energy costs, transport disruption and recruitment.
The survey found that 47 per cent of businesses are more confident about their performance over the coming 12 months than they were at the same point last year.
That marks a significant increase from the 34 per cent recorded in the first quarter of 2026.
Based on responses from more than 250 businesses across the Greater Dublin Area, the survey suggests firms remain willing to invest and expand despite rising operating costs and infrastructure challenges.
Aebhric McGibney, Director of Public and International Affairs at Dublin Chamber, said the findings reflected growing optimism across the capital’s business community.
“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,” he said.
However, he warned that a number of long standing competitiveness issues continue to weigh on businesses.
“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.”
Energy remains a particular source of concern.
More than half of businesses surveyed said they have moderate or high levels of concern about both energy costs and the security of supply, with many warning that any further increases could force them to reconsider investment and expansion plans.
Transport disruption also continues to affect firms across the capital.
Almost half of respondents said congestion, road closures and problems with public transport were having a moderate or significant impact on their operations, with staff commuting difficulties emerging as the most common consequence.
Recruitment remains another significant challenge, with 44 per cent of businesses reporting difficulties attracting and retaining workers or filling vacancies.
Despite those pressures, innovation remains central to future growth strategies.
More than four in five respondents said innovation would be important to the success of their business over the coming years, while the survey also points to the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence.
More than a third of firms, 38 per cent, said they are already using AI within specific departments or business functions.
A further 23 per cent are piloting AI initiatives, while 15 per cent have embedded the technology across multiple areas of their organisation.
McGibney said the findings underline both Dublin’s strengths and the need for continued investment if the city is to remain competitive internationally.
“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 Business Outlook Survey gathered responses from more than 250 businesses across the Dublin region between April and May 2026.