Most Irish family businesses see sales growth this year 

11% of Irish family firms experienced a drop in sales in 2025, said PwC Ireland’s Family Business Survey

One in five Irish family businesses saw double-digit sales growth in the last year despite uncertain economic conditions and intense market competition.

One in five Irish family businesses saw double-digit sales growth in the last year despite uncertain economic conditions and intense market competition.

A survey of more than 1,300 family businesses around the world also found Irish companies are feeling economic pressure more than their global peers.

PwC Ireland’s Family Business Survey found that the majority (63%) of Irish family businesses saw sales growth in 2025, ahead of firms in other countries at 57%. However, double-digit sales growth (20%) for 2025 lagged global peers (25%). Over one in ten (11%) Irish family firms experienced a drop in sales this year.

Participants were also asked about their future plans. Irish family businesses are more confident on growth compared to their global peers: 83% have robust growth ambitions for the next two years.

Workforce availability is a particular concern, with 65% of Irish companies saying it’s a risk. Nearly two-thirds (65%) say they are struggling with talent and leadership development. Family businesses here also worry more about lacking expertise in emerging technology and sustainability.

"Long seen as more resilient than non-family businesses, Irish family firms are feeling the economic pressures more so than global peers," Mairead Harbron, Partner, PwC Private, said.

"Despite this, they remain more upbeat on growth ambitions over the next two years and are prioritising reputation and legacy. They are also indicating a greater likelihood to take a more cautious approach than global peers, when it comes to managing market disruption.”

When responding to market disruptions, nearly three-quarters (72%) of Irish respondents are of the view that family businesses have a significant to moderate competitive advantage compared to non-family businesses. A large majority (87%) believe that their family business has higher trust compared to non-family businesses. This extends to the levels of trust with customers, employees and partners.

“While growth expectations remain robust, the global research confirms that family businesses that are agile and purpose-driven continue to outperform their peers," Ms Harbon said.