Home Improvement in Dublin

Franchising in Ireland is a rapidly expanding industry with massive potential due to a growing population and thriving economy. While the island is well suited to accommodate new businesses, most investors will still ask themselves this particular question when thinking of investing in a franchise opportunity: where is the best location to open a new franchise territory?

Unsurprisingly, given that it is the capital city, Dublin still remains the prime territory for franchising in Ireland.

With a population of 1.3 million, Dublin continues to see increased growth year on year due to it’s continued expansion of FDI and the presence of multi-national companies. With so much of the country’s economic activity centred in the capital city, this means that franchises are uniquely positioned for success in this region.

Due to the high number of businesses in Dublin, this means that there is a large population who require services and amenities throughout the county. This is where franchisors can fill that spot.

Whether it’s a young workforce looking for a new lunch spot or high-end restaurant or parents in need of extra-curricular activities or tutoring for their children, there are endless opportunities for franchised business across the nations’ capital.

 
Fun Franchising Fact

Franchise Footprint & Sectors

• There are more than 4,000 franchise units across in operation across Ireland, directly employing around 43,000 workers. To no one’s surprise, food & drink being the most popular segment. Since the opening of the first Irish McDonalds in Ireland in 1977, fast food franchises have become a staple of the Irish economy, with the introduction of Starbucks to the Irish market in 2005 in Dundrum shopping centre cemented Ireland’s status as franchise lovers.
• Estimated revenue from business-format franchising is close to €1 billion, with over 150 franchise systems in operation, and roughly 30,000 jobs tied directly to franchising according to stats from thinkbusiness.ie

Established Franchises in Dublin

Some popular Dublin franchises include:

• Abrakebabra: 24 outlets nationwide, with 13 in Dublin, serving kebabs since 1982.
• Apache Pizza: Ireland’s largest pizza chain with 200+ locations, many clustered around Dublin.
• Camile Thai: The brand is over 45 locations since 2021. Founded in Dublin in 2010 by Brody Sweeney, the business was expanded as a franchise and has since broken into the UK market.
• Supermac’s: An Irish fast-food chain founded by businessman Pat McDonagh. The chain currently has 118 outlets across Ireland
• Insomnia Coffee Company: Popular with those early risers heading into the office, Insomnia Coffee has 150+ cafés in Ireland after it’s small start in Eason & Son book store in Galway back in 1997.
• Four Star Pizza: Open in Dublin in 1986 in Dublin, the popular pizza franchise has 60 outlets across Ireland.

Why Franchise in Dublin?

• Market density: High urban population and high volumes of tourist traffic between March and October ensure robust footfall throughout the year.
• Consumer familiarity: Dubliners are accustomed to franchise dining and service options.
• Transport & hub position: Excellent infrastructure (Dublin Bus/GoConnect, the Luas and DART and train lines) makes it easy to manage multiple locations. Unlike other larger European counterparts such as London, Dublin is a walkable city meaning people can easily manoeuvre throughout and stumble upon new bars, cafés and restaurants with ease.

Financial Support Available

Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs)

There are 31 LEOs situated across Ireland. Some of the services they are offer include:

• Priming Grants for start-ups under 18 months.
• Business Expansion Grants for scaling operations.

Business Expansion Grant

• This can cover up to 50% of eligible investment. However, it can be capped at €80,000—or €150,000 in exceptional cases (https://www.localenterprise.ie/)
• Up to €15,000 per job created (https://www.localenterprise.ie/)

Market Explorer Grant

• This grant can support overseas expansion with up to €10,000 available (50% of eligible costs) (https://www.localenterprise.ie/)

Bank of Ireland & Franchise Support

Traditional borrowing from banks and accredited borrowers is still the most popular method of financial assistance for would-be franchisees. Due to the stability of franchises, banks are more likely to provide loans to those who are investing in a franchise opportunity.

The majority of franchises also offer third-party financing options to new franchisees.

• Some franchisors, like Synergy Stocktaking, are approved by Bank of Ireland and the Irish Franchise Association, offering co-financing assistance.

Specialist Advisory Services

• Firms such as OSK Accountants offer franchise-focused accounting, cash flow planning, and tax support. 
• The Irish Franchise Association provides accreditation, ethics guidelines, networking, and sector best practices.