Ireland’s drinks sector contributes an estimated €4.1 billion in gross value added to the all-island economy and supports more than 14,000 jobs, according to a new Indecon report for Drinks Ireland. About 200 producers operate across the island, from whiskey distilleries to breweries and cider makers, with facilities in every county. For C-suite leaders in drinks manufacturing, the report quantifies a high-value industry that already competes globally.

The findings support a positive reading of the sector’s position, provided policy conditions keep pace. Three strengths stand out for manufacturing Ireland: exceptional productivity, a fast-growing export base, and deep domestic supply chain links to Irish agriculture. Each is measurable, and each shows where further investment can pay off.

Productivity is the clearest advantage. Output per worker stands at €809,325, which is 22% above food manufacturing at €662,215, while gross value added per employee reaches €452,800 against €136,200 in food manufacturing. Drinks manufacturing directly employs 4,726 people across the island, 4,222 of them in the Republic. These are high-value roles that reward investment in advanced manufacturing and skills.

Exports show the sector’s reach. All-island drinks exports are valued at €2.7 billion, with value up 91% and volume up 52% between 2015 and 2025. About 95% of Irish whiskey production is exported, and the sector sells into more than 120 markets. The Irish Times reports that the Republic’s €2.1 billion in export sales equals about 2.5% of global alcohol exports, with growth in India, China, Mexico, Nigeria and South Africa since 2015.

Domestic supply chain links multiply the benefit. Producers source 64% of purchases at home and buy over €815 million of Irish inputs each year, including almost 273,000 tonnes of barley and almost 354 million litres of milk in 2025. Domestic input purchasing has risen by more than 40% over 15 years. About 92% of whiskey distilleries and 85% of breweries and cider producers sit outside Dublin, spreading this value across regions.

Three actions can protect and extend these gains. First, press for competitive excise settings, since the report notes that Irish rates remain among the highest in the EU and that EU-level clarity would support investment. Second, secure prompt implementation of the announced removal of US tariffs on Irish whiskey and a return to zero tariffs on beer and spirits, while building emerging markets. Third, pair multi-year farm sourcing agreements with investment in manufacturing excellence and energy efficiency.

The Indecon findings give the Irish sector a clear, evidence-based story: productive, export-led and rooted in regional supply chains. Cost and tariff pressures are real, but the underlying economics are strong. For leaders in drinks manufacturing, the task is to convert this base into durable growth through disciplined investment and constructive engagement with policymakers.