Restaurants Association of Ireland

The Restaurants Association of Ireland was formed in 1970 with the initial goal of forming a strong lobby that would represent the industry at Government level on issues of importance to the Irish restaurant industry.Nine branches were formed around the country, more of which exist today on a county by county basis. 

The successful ‘Keep VAT at 9%’ campaign of 2013 and 2014 was integral to retention of the 9% lower VAT rate in Budget 2014 and 2015. The Association continues to promote the positive economic and employment benefits of the lowered VAT rate for our industry. Other issues the RAI are currently working on include 

• Excise Duty
• PRSI Bands 
• Calories on Menus
• Local Authority Rates
• Regulatory Burdern

The RAI now represents in excess of 1,500 members, with establishments representing full service restaurants, coffees shops, hotel restaurants, gastropubs, golf clubs and cookery schools. We also have over 100 trade partners, businesses that are our approved suppliers of products and services for restaurants.

The RAI organise and promote the annual Irish Restaurant Awards, Ireland’s premier restaurant event – www.irishrestaurantawards.com

If you are interested in becoming a member of the RAI please contact us on 01-6779901 or email membership@rai.ie