US multinationals expect Irish employment rise next year

American companies operating in Ireland anticipate continued employment growth and increased investment in the country over the next five years, according to a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland. The vast majority of respondents, 90%, plan to maintain or increase their workforce in the coming year, with nearly half intending to hire more staff.

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The US-Ireland relationship has evolved into one of the world’s most successful economic partnerships, built on decades of investment, innovation and collaboration.

Beyond employment, 70% of businesses expect their parent companies to invest further in Ireland over the next five years. These companies are also looking to boost their technological capabilities, with over two-thirds planning increased investment in AI, automation, and data analytics initiatives within the next 12 months. Employee upskilling is also a priority, with 51% of firms planning to invest in training.

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While volatility is likely to remain a defining feature of the decade, stability, predictability and trusted partnerships will become more valuable.

However, the survey highlights significant challenges. A third of respondents identified cost competitiveness as the primary obstacle to investment and expansion, while 27% pointed to housing shortages. Ireland's energy infrastructure and security of supply were also cited as a competitive disadvantage by over half of the businesses surveyed.

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Ensuring that Ireland remains competitive is critical to maintaining success.

American Chamber of Commerce Ireland CEO Paul Sweetman emphasized the enduring strength of the US-Ireland economic partnership, built on "decades of investment, innovation and collaboration." He stressed the importance of maintaining Ireland's competitiveness amid global volatility, stating that "stability, predictability and trusted partnerships will become more valuable." Sweetman expressed confidence that through continued collaboration, Ireland can "drive on from a position of strength and the two-way transatlantic relationship will thrive."

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Through continued collaboration, I am confident that Ireland can drive on from a position of strength and the two-way transatlantic relationship will thrive.