Horticulture and Cereals Sector

The first six months of 2024 were wetter and colder than normal, and this helped the sales of mushrooms, which are often based around ‘comfort meals’.

Compost quality was excellent and as a result yields increased, leading to higher volumes available for export. An increase in prices helped boost the value of exports and sustained producer margins.

The product has moved from niche status to a more mainstream staple. There should be further opportunities for educating the consumer on the nutritional benefits of mushrooms given the consumer interest in health and nutrition right now.

Amenity exports were higher for foliage and plants, although down for daffodils, with the UK taking the bulk of sales.

However, exports to the UK are becoming more difficult, as Brexit-related paperwork increases complexity and costs.

Foliage sales continued to increase to all markets, while daffodil exports to the US dropped off considerably

The key market for Irish cereals is the domestic market and animal feed sector, but there is an important element supplied into the food and beverage market. In 2024, the value of cereal exports was estimated at €90 million, a decline of 7% versus 2023, with Northern Ireland the destination for more than 75% of exports.

According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the growing area for cereals in 2024 was estimated to be at 262,000 hectares, or 7% behind the equivalent 2023 figure.

There was a shift out of winter barley and wheat, with some additional land given to spring barley and oats in particular.

From a profitability perspective, 2024 saw price decreases for fertiliser, electricity and seed, contributing to an overall 8% reduction in costs compared to 2023.