Ireland stands tall as a beacon of strategic vision and adaptability, steadfastly retaining its allure for foreign direct investment (FDI). Amidst the complexities of economics and the twists of geopolitics, Ireland’s role as the cornerstone of transatlantic business cooperation remains resolute—an embodiment of the enduring vigor of Irish-American relations and the extraordinary influence of shared values in shaping a future brimming with prosperity.
Head of Industry and FDI
Grant Thornton Ireland
Martin Shanahan, the newly appointed Head of Industry and FDI at Grant Thornton Ireland, the fastest growing professional services firm in the country, stated, “Ireland isn’t just a bridge between the United States and Europe; it’s a nexus of economic stability, political stability, a highly educated workforce, strategic placement, reliable tax structure, and a welcoming business environment that consistently draws in American giants. Despite the challenges, Ireland’s charm remains undiminished. Its role as a bustling global business hub continues to attract major corporations, signifying their trust in the ecosystem as they broaden their presence in Ireland.
“We continue to see flows of investment into Ireland, with a large portion stemming from the USA. For instance across the last several years, approximately 70% of Irish FDI is coming from North America. In an era of slower globalization since 2019, Ireland continues to win a significant portion of investment flowing into Europe. To put this into context, Ireland’s population makes up roughly 1.1% of Europe’s population, but as a country Ireland receives approximately 3-4% of the investment into Europe. Ireland is winning about 7-8% of investment in some sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biopharma, international financial services, engineering, and food – punching well above its weight.”
Navigating the FDI Landscape
Fueling this thriving business magnet is Grant Thornton Ireland, a pivotal force that has nurtured the growth and expansion of US multinational enterprises within the Irish domain. With a presence spanning over 140 markets across the global network of Grant Thornton International, the firm plays a vital role in guiding American companies through the intricate nuances of international business regulations.
Grant Thornton Ireland offers tailored solutions, expertly designed to harmonize with client objectives, serving as a cornerstone for their successful operations on Irish soil. Shanahan added, “Grant Thornton Ireland will continue to grow our engagement with multinationals across the globe, and the USA is a key part of that. We are working to leverage our strong existing relationships, and look forward to engaging with prospective new clients.”
He added, “Grant Thornton Ireland’s story is one of growth. We have grown significantly over the last decade, now having over 2,700 colleagues in Ireland. We have robust revenue growth, and strong ambitions. We are continuing to remain nimble and innovative, honing our full range of services, and adapting to clients’ sophisticated needs.”
A Vision for Tomorrow
As Ireland forges ahead with unwavering confidence, collaborative synergies between Irish and American entities are primed to mold a future steeped in prosperity and innovation. Its stature as the gateway to Europe for American enterprises is set to ascend even higher. While the global economic landscape undergoes transformative shifts, Ireland’s strategic foresight and adaptability will stand as pillars, upholding its magnetic appeal for US FDI.