SMEs seek to protect margins, as costs rise and no tax relief in sight

Ireland’s small firms must cut costs to cope with challenges in 2026, advise Alma O’Brien and Catherine McGovern of Azets

Catherine McGovern, partner, tax, Azets Ireland.

Cost controls are an increasing priority in 2026 for family-run businesses and many mid-sized firms, say two leading advisers with business consultancy Azets Ireland.

As a new year dawns, dark clouds are gathering on the horizon for Ireland’s SMEs, say Alma O’Brien, partner and head of tax, and Catherine McGovern, partner, tax, at Azets Ireland.