Most Cork firms expects to increase headcount, says Chamber survey

Cork Chamber president Susie Horgan said AI ambition must now be matched by Government support and investment. Picture: Larry Cummins

There is a high level of confidence in Cork companies despite ongoing cost pressures, according to Cork Chamber's quarterly trends survey, with continued adaption of AI in the workplace.

The Q3 2026 Economic Trends Survey found that 82% of respondents expressed confidence in the Irish economy heading into the final quarter of the year,  an increase on 73% in the last quarter. Concerns regarding the cost of energy and raw materials, as well as geopolitical uncertainty, continue to be cited by respondents as the top threats to business growth.

“Ongoing confidence in the Irish economy is evident among Cork businesses, demonstrating the continued competitiveness and adaptability of the regional economy in spite of concerns regarding energy costs and geopolitical uncertainty," said Stephen McCarthy, PTSB business banking manager. 

“Responding businesses are also optimistic as we look ahead to the final quarter of 2026; 60% of respondents predict an increase in turnover in the final quarter of this year. The majority of those surveyed, 52%, also expect to increase their headcount over the next 12 months, up from 42% in Q2 2026. Overall, this quarter’s results paint a positive picture, with many Cork firms on an upward growth trajectory.”

The Q3 2026 Economic Trends Survey also sought the views of members on the impact and predicted evolution of AI on Cork businesses. It found 85% of businesses report that AI has impacted their business operations over the past 12 months, and almost a quarter of all respondents report improved business growth, productivity or competitiveness as a result of AI usage.

Some 47% of respondents report investing in AI training in the past 12 months, via in-house, external, or government-supported programmes. Lack of expertise, uncertainty about the business case for AI, and data protection concerns were cited by respondents as the top three barriers to greater AI usage.

AI usage was highest in areas such as administration, communications, finance, and research.

Cork Chamber president, Susie Horgan, said: “AI is already having a positive impact on Cork businesses, with many reporting enhanced growth and competitiveness and predicting further improvements as digitalisation continues. Cork businesses are clearly ambitious about the opportunities offered by AI, and this ambition must now be matched by Government support and investment.

“The results of this quarter’s survey underline the importance of sufficient training, advisory supports and grant funding for organisations seeking to enhance their AI capabilities."