Online, ecommerce and digital representative body Digital Business Ireland said today that online sales are forecast to reach almost €16 billion this year.
The organisation contends that business to business (B2B) online sales remains the big opportunity for discerning businesses in Ireland.
DBI said this optimistic forecast is based on a robust performance in 2023, where digital sales surged to €14.3 billion, marking a €1.6 billion increase from 2022.
It is also underpinned by several factors, including increased consumer confidence in online shopping, advancements in cybersecurity and digital payment solutions and the ongoing evolution of digital marketing strategies, DBI said.
Founded in 2019, Digital Business Ireland is the voice of the Irish digital commerce sector and the leading representative body for online businesses and the group includes 8,500 businesses.
Caroline Dunlea, the Chair of Digital Business Ireland, said that recent trends are showing that growth could be extended further, as more and more and more retailers and suppliers are seeing the endless possibilities with digital propagation of their goods and services.
"With further homes connected to 5G broadband through the National Broadband Plan and Digital Accessibility regulations likely to unlock 600,000 additional customers, the future of digital sales is extremely positive," she stated.
"The continued upward trajectory of online sales in Ireland is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of our digital economy. With nearly €16 billion in online sales projected for 2024, it's clear that the digital sector is a major driver of economic growth," she added.
