The majority of retail outlets are expected to open on St Patrick's Day, according to a survey out this morning.
Retail Ireland, the IBEC group that represents the retail sector, said that most shopping centres and 70% of businesses would be open on Saturday in an effort to boost sales over the bank holiday weekend.
A survey of 27 of the biggest stores in Dublin city centre conducted by the Dublin Business Improvement District shows that all the shopping centres will open, as will 70% of the businesses surveyed.
It says retailers have taken the decision because March 17 falls on a Saturday, usually the busiest shopping day of the week, and it falls the day before Mother's Day.
Some stores have also extended their opening hours.
Retail Ireland says DIY retailers, in particular, are expecting a rise in sales this weekend. It says retailers need a boost after a poor start to 2012.
