Grapevine: Thousands of jobs at risk as health supplements face 23% VAT hike

Irish health food retailers estimate that up to 1,800 jobs will be put at risk when a 23% VAT rate is imposed on food supplements, vitamins and minerals, from March 1.

The issue has been highlighted as a concern by such industry groups as the Irish Pharmacy Union, the Irish Health Trade Association (IHTA) and the Retail Excellence. While it may feel like a coordinated push, there’s certainly no doubting the strength and the immediacy of the concerns being expressed across the groups.