DUBLIN: Grafton St basks in recovery but rents on rise

While few would argue Dublin has been hardest hit by the recession, retailers there have endured a period of stagnation similar to that of their regional counterparts — and it’s only now beginning to lift.

Helped by employment growth which remains the envy of other towns and cities, Dublin has begun to bustle again as vacancies fall and rents begin to edge upwards.

Prime retail vacancy in Dublin city centre sit just above 3% while demand on Grafton St continues to drive retailers and shoppers alike towards its cobbles. A 1% improvement over the past six months now sees just 2% of the street’s retail space unused.