Investec Europe today announces the findings from its inaugural survey of Ireland-based business owners, CFOs, and key decision-makers from privately owned food processing companies.
The survey reveals a strong sense of optimism across food processing companies, with 76% of respondents indicating they expect their businesses to grow over the next 12 months.
When asked where they saw the most growth in sales coming from over the next year, 37% of respondents said Ireland, 37% UK and 26% opted for the rest of the world. Furthermore, a significant 83% of respondents indicated that they plan to pursue organic growth strategies, with a significant number also looking at mergers or takeovers to drive growth.
However, the audience highlighted concerns around FX volatility and the impact of regulation or tariffs as significant challenges they face. These factors underscore the complexities that businesses must navigate as they pursue growth opportunities in an evolving economic landscape.
Mark O'Brien, Head of Business Development for TRS, Investec, said: “It is encouraging to see such a strong expectation of growth among businesses in the food processing sector. This optimism is a testament to the resilience and determination of companies to thrive in a competitive environment. Irish producers have already adapted to the realities of Brexit and have a lot of experience in managing the new trading environment it has created. However, nearly 65% of respondents are looking to export to the UK or the rest of the world, so it is crucial that companies monitor FX volatility and manage risk as they look towards growth.”
”Investec is committed to supporting our clients throughout their growth cycle, providing tailored financial solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each business, coupled with exceptional levels of service, helping them to navigate market complexities and realise their growth ambitions.”
Oliver Cardigan, Managing Director, Investec Advisory added: “Companies are focusing on growing their businesses both organically and through mergers and acquisitions. This reflects a positive mindset among food producers and indicates that many are considering strategic acquisitions to seize opportunities for rapid business growth.”
Investec’s TRS teams in the UK and Ireland have successfully serviced mid-market clients for over 20 years, supporting businesses to manage risk with a breadth of solutions across commodities, FX, inflation, interest rates and money markets. Services range from sophisticated currency management, a specialist FX desk dedicated to the fund and private capital sector, hedging solutions associated with commodity price volatility and interest rate and inflation risk mitigation, among others.
Investec was named Best Bank for Corporates and Best FX provider in Ireland at the Global Finance Awards 2025, as well as the Best FX Trading Platform at the Global Finance Tech Awards 2025 for its FX platform, Investec ix.
For further information, please contact:
Charles Clarke
Head of Business PR