Dining out the biggest draw for visitors to Cork city centre, says Chamber survey

Chef Orla McAndrew giving a cooking demonstration outside the English Market, Grand Parade for the Cork on a Fork Food Festival. Dining out is as the most popular reason for consumers to spend time into Cork's city centre, cited by 70% of respondents in Cork Chambers' latest Economic Trends survey. Picture: Darragh Kane

Dining out is as the most popular reason for consumers to spend time into Cork's city centre, cited by 70% of respondents in Cork Chambers' latest Economic Trends survey. 

The Economic Trends survey measured business sentiment and economic outlook among Chamber members at the close of Q3 2025. Confidence in the Irish economy remains high at 73%, however rising business costs emerged as the top concern for future economic growth. 

Cork Chamber president Rob Horgan said: “Maintaining and enhancing safety in Cork city centre will be critical to further improving Cork’s night-time economy and events offering. 

Survey results indicate that Garda visibility, public realm design, and the availability of public transport are the most important factors influencing the feeling of safety in the city. 

The survey results highlight the need for dedicated events spaces in Cork to attract more visitors to Cork. Mr Horgan said the Cork Events Centre must be a "key priority" for the region’s future development.

PTSB business banking manager Auriol Kelly said the survey also showed concerns in areas such as housing supply and skills availability but noted 94% of respondents expressed confidence in their business, from an overall financial perspective.