Duncan Graham: Retailers may have to pass on cost hikes to consumers

Irish retailers are struggling after an extraordinarily difficult 18 months and the surge in prices isn't helping their recovery

Local authorities in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and other centres need to get creative to entice people back into urban centres. File Picture: PA

After a truly extraordinary and difficult 18 months, every industry in the country has been affected in some shape or form. The retail industry is no different and, as such, it is worth reflecting on the challenges that remain for retailers, along with genuine opportunities that exist for the industry. 

It is grimly ironic that, as the effect of pandemic recedes, hard-pressed retailers have been hit by several problems, not least significant supply chain issues and an energy crisis which has led to sky-rocketing prices for goods and services.