DBI Urges Shoppers to “Buy Irish” Amid Alarming Drop in Local Spending

Digital Business Ireland (DBI), the country’s largest representative body for digital and online businesses has today issued an urgent appeal to shoppers to Buy Irish this Christmas after a startling new survey showed that only 26% of consumers plan to purchase their Christmas shopping within Ireland.

Interesting DBI report

The research commissioned by DBI, and carried out by polling company Ireland Thinks, asked shoppers ‘During December you plan to purchase goods (online or in person) from retailers in other countries?’

The findings include:

• Almost half (49%) of Irish consumers plan to purchase goods from international retail outlets this Christmas.
• Only 26% of respondents committed to buying Irish goods from Irish shops.
• Males aged 18-34 are most likely to shop abroad (64%)
• Males and females aged over 65 are the least likely to shop abroad at (40% and 44%)

DBI is now calling on shoppers to focus their Christmas spending on products from retailers in Ireland, whether that’s in city and town centres or through online purchases. With the survey showing that as many as 25% of shoppers are still unsure about where to focus their spending, DBI said there is now a great opportunity to persuade more shoppers to Buy Irish.

Chairperson of DBI Founder Caroline Dunlea commented, “There are so many reasons to buy local, no matter how convenient it might seem to shop online from international retailers. By buying local, consumers enjoy stronger rights, better returns policies, and the assurance of safety standards. Every purchase made with an Irish retailer this Christmas helps sustain jobs, strengthens our economy, and contributes to communities across the country.”

“Irish retailers offer clear returns policies, adhere to EU consumer rights standards, and provide safe, high-quality products—giving peace of mind during the busiest shopping season of the year.

“Shopping locally also means avoiding customs fees and delivery delays, ensuring that gifts arrive on time. Irish retailers, particularly smaller businesses, often provide a more personal and tailored shopping experience, including helpful customer support. Purchasing locally-produced goods reduces the carbon footprint associated with international shipping and packaging, contributing to a more sustainable festive season.”

This December, make a conscious choice to support Irish retailers. By doing so, you’re not just investing in quality and safety but also contributing to vibrant local communities.

Visit here to see our booklet breaking down the results of the survey.

Established in 2019, Digital Business Ireland is the voice of the Irish digital commerce sector and the leading representative body for online businesses. Its community extends to 8,500 businesses. The organisation’s membership footprint continues to grow across a range of sectors, including retail, hospitality, professional services, travel, technology, transport, and property.

Through engaging its network, DBI provides a vast range of services including; the annual Digital Business Ireland Summit, training and events, networking opportunities, general advisory insights, advocacy, and public policy development – which collectively, facilitate digital businesses to grow, thrive, and achieve their ambitions.