Resilience Amid Rising Pressures: Key Insights from InterTradeIreland Q1 2025 Business Monitor

Despite ongoing economic pressures, 61% of businesses (that took part in the survey) reported profitability, with 54% maintaining stable performance and 35% experiencing growth.

However, challenges persist. Rising overhead costs (56%) and energy prices (51%) remain the top concerns for SMEs, while 22% cite late payments as a significant issue. Recruitment also continues to be a hurdle, with 38% of firms with three or more employees struggling to find candidates with the right skills.

Geopolitical uncertainty is adding to the strain. Fourteen percent of businesses feel directly exposed to the impacts of US trade tariffs, with concerns centered on increased costs, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures.

Sustainability remains on the agenda, though momentum has slowed slightly. While 55% of businesses rate sustainability and Net Zero as important, only 17% have a plan in place. Among those without a plan, 41% prioritise daily operations, and 20% cite a lack of incentives.

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