The Irish SMB Landscape in 2025
As of August 2025, Irish small and medium businesses (SMBs) are experiencing steady growth. Recent SBCI SME Outlook Report figures show employment growth of 2.8% last year, with another 3.2% expected this year. Accounting for over 70% of private sector jobs, Irish SMBs are at the heart of Ireland’s economy.
Yet, these businesses face persistent challenges: rising costs, skills shortages, constantly changing regulations, and ever-increasing customer expectations. According to the Q1 2025 SME Business Confidence Tracker, 88% of SMBs feel positive about the year, but customer acquisition remains their top challenge. On average, SMBs plan to invest up to €193,000 in digital tools to supercharge sales and customer engagement.
AI automation is rapidly becoming a competitive necessity. Around 30% of Irish SMBs already use some form of AI, and 27% plan to adopt AI soon (Bibby Financial Services, April 2025). Early adopters report faster lead capture, improved conversion rates, and the ability to engage customers 24/7. For Irish SMBs, investing in AI-powered sales automation is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in 2025 and beyond.