Manufacturing momentum holds but cost headwinds tighten margins

Irish manufacturing continued to expand in July, with strong demand driving production and new orders. Employment growth remained robust, matching a three-year high. But rising raw material and transport costs are beginning to bite, squeezing margins even as firms pass some of the burden onto customers.

Despite cost pressures, the sector remains broadly optimistic. A third of businesses anticipate higher output in the year ahead, banking on a possible easing of global trade uncertainty and a release of pent-up demand.

Read the full article for the latest insights on how rising costs are reshaping manufacturing performance.