Crowe/Horwath HTL Ireland recently released the 26th Annual Hotel Industry Survey – a survey of the Pandemic Era, 2020 and 2021. Across 2020 and 2021, the hotel sector in Ireland recorded a massive loss in revenue due to the Government restrictions imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19, including periods of business closure, travel restrictions and social distancing as well as the reduction in worldwide travel. Revenue fell by 65% in 2020 and 49% in 2021 against 2019 levels. The extremely low occupancy levels of 29.6% in 2020 and 39.5% in 2021, compared to 73.8% in 2019, further confirm the unprecedented impact that the pandemic had on business levels in comparison to a normal year of trading. The cumulative impact of supports from the Government was to convert the sector from loss-making to profitable at EBITDAR level. These supports included a reduction in VAT to 9%, payroll support schemes (TWSS and EWSS), the COVID Response Support Scheme (CRSS) and other grants and cost waivers. However, the levels of EBITDAR profits for 2020 and 2021 were still down 82% and 42% respectively on 2019 levels.compared to 2019, reflecting the unprecedented challenges faced by the industry.

The Irish hotel sector has faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but with restrictions beginning to lift in June 2021, there is optimism for a robust recovery to pre-pandemic performance levels. In 2019, despite a VAT increase impacting revenues, Ireland’s hotel market was financially strong. Dublin remained a prime location for hotel development, maintaining high occupancy levels and adding new bedrooms.

The tourism industry in Ireland is valued at over €9bn supporting one in ten jobs in the country. The sector has seen significant growth over the last decade, with international visitor numbers alone increasing by over 30% (from the previous peak in 2007) to over 10 million visitors in 2018. Ireland is a leading tourist destination, enriched with history and culture and with continued improvements in infrastructure and access, the outlook for the hospitality sector remains positive. This report, written by Naoise Cosgrove of Horwath HTL Ireland, provides an insight into Ireland’s dynamic tourism and hospitality market.