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The Irish franchise market in 2026 is being shaped by a unique combination of high labour costs, an ever-evolving tech landscape, and a distinct shift toward "holistic" and "convenience" services.
With a turnover exceeding €2.5 billion and over 4,000 active franchised units, the franchise sector remains a vital part of the Irish economy.
Here are 10 key franchise trends to watch for in Ireland in 2026:
1. The Rise of 24/7 Models
Driven by rising payroll costs and the introduction of pension auto-enrolment in January 2026, many Irish franchisees are pivoting to staff-less models (with the assistance of AI).
Example of Staff-less Sectors
- 24/7 gyms (like Snap Fitness),
- automated self-storage, and
- "smart" laundromats.
What is the appeal of 24/7 and staff-less models?
Lower overheads and higher margins in an era of tightening labour markets are contributing factors to this emerging model.
2. "Asset-Light" and Low-Cost Entry Points
As commercial rents in Dublin, Cork and Galway remain high with no sign of decreasing, this will push an interest in low-cost franchises that require no physical premises.
Going forward, mobile-based franchises such as van-based repairs, mobile dog grooming or kiosks/food trucks that do not require a physical or static location will grow in popularity as they require a much lower minimum investment.
This will allow entrepreneurs with smaller budgets or those who are only starting out in their careers to enter the world of franchising.
Hottest Low Cost Franchise Opportunities for Sale Franchises
Kumon Ireland
Open your own Kumon Study Centre and become part of the world’s largest provider of supplementary maths & English education.
Pet Sitters Ireland
Love animals and the prospect of working from home? This could be the franchise for you.
3. Fitness Clubs Diversifying
Traditional gyms and fitness clubs are now facing tough competition from highly specialised or boutique studios that focus on specific communities or activities.
What's Hot & Trending in 2026?
- Padel (Padel100),
- Pilates (Club Pilates)
- And HIIT studios.
| Community Focus: | Group-based outdoor fitness and "Hyrox" style training are seeing massive growth across Ireland as fitness enthusiasts are looking for more holistic and collaborative ways to engage in exercising. |
4. Sustainable Retail
Consumer demand for sustainability and eco-friendly businesses is now rapidly becoming a core business requirement for a lot of companies in the retail sector.
What types of franchises will benefit from this shift?
Franchises focusing on upcycled home décor, electronics repair, and non-toxic cleaning services.
5. Multi-Unit and Multi-Brand Portfolios
The "sophisticated investor" is becoming the dominant player in the Irish market.
Successful franchisees are no longer stopping at one unit; they are now owning clusters of different brands (e.g., a fast-foodbrand and a home-care brand) to diversify their risk.
6. Health Optimisation & Vitality Clinics
Beyond basic fitness, there is a growing trend for "bio-hacking" and clinical wellness services across the public.
Franchises specialising in the following could be primed for early success this year:
- IV drip therapy clinics
- Hormone optimisation centres
- And metabolic testing hubs.
7. AI-Enhanced Home Improvement Services
Home services (plumbing, electrical, landscaping) are being aided by AI-powered automations and systems.
Hottest Home Improvement Franchise Opportunities for Sale Franchises
Chem-Dry Ireland
With more than 3,000 locations in 50 countries, Chem-Dry is the world’s largest carpet and upholstery cleaning system.
Several franchises are now using AI for remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance scheduling, and automated lead generation. This gives this brands a significant edge over traditional home improvementcompanies.
8. Continues Expansion of US Brands
Major US brands will continue to use Ireland as testing ground for their European expansion plans.
Recent Examples:
Wendy’s (in partnership with Corrib Oil) and Taco Bell (via a similar partnership with Applegreen) are opening up locations across the country in 2026.
9. Senior Care 2.0
Ireland’s growing aging population is going to drive a shift toward more specialised in-home care.
Franchises are now bundling traditional care with home modification (retrofitting homes for accessibility) and transportation.
10. Education & Neurodiverse Support
Tutoring is moving beyond the traditional curriculum to focus on specialised support for children and young people.
Hottest Education Franchise Opportunities for Sale Franchises
Kumon Ireland
Open your own Kumon Study Centre and become part of the world’s largest provider of supplementary maths & English education.
MathRiders
MathRiders provides your child a maths-rich environment, along with stories, games, songs and activities, encouraging them to reach their full potential.
Lingotot
Lingotot makes language learning child's play with interactive, motivating and multi-sensory classes for children aged 0-13.
Franchises offering mental health support, neurodiverse learning programs, and AI-literacy courses for children and adults are seeing high demand from parents.
Your Next Steps
Get ahead of the curve in 2026 and jump on these franchise trends. These sectors and industries are primed for success in the next 12 months and counting.
If you're ready to begin your franchise journey, then Franchise Direct Ireland is best place to launch your new career. Either browse our extensive list of franchise opportunities or learn more about how to start a franchise.