E-Commerce Ireland: The Perfect Market for Your Amazon Expansion

Ireland’s e-commerce sector is booming, reflecting global trends and the country’s highly connected population. While the sector was growing steadily before the pandemic, COVID-19 accelerated consumer adoption of online shopping. With a 98% internet penetration rate—one of the highest in the world—and a tech-savvy population, Ireland is a force to be reckoned with in the digital economy and an ideal entry point into the wider EU market.

Market growth

According to Statista, the Irish e-commerce market is projected to generate US$6.2 billion in revenue by 2025. With an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 8.79%, the market is expected to reach US$8.68 billion by 2029. 

On an individual level, Irish consumers exhibit strong purchasing power, with an average revenue per user (ARPU) of US$2,300. This trend places Ireland among the most active e-commerce markets relative to its size, making it an attractive option for companies looking to expand into new countries.

What’s driving growth?

Several factors are fueling the expansion of e-commerce in Ireland:

• Mobile dominance: With a rapidly expanding 5G network covering 75% of the country, mobile commerce is becoming the dominant force in online retail. One in four online purchases in Ireland is made via a mobile app.
• Retail adaptation: Businesses are investing in mobile-friendly platforms and launching dedicated apps to cater to a growing mobile-first consumer base.
• Payment innovations: Irish consumers are increasingly relying on digital wallets and bank transfers for online purchases. Popular payment gateways such as Stripe, PayPal, and Global Payments enhance convenience and security. 

Consumer trends and shopping behavior

E-commerce in Ireland is thriving across various sectors, with clothing (58%), shoes (44%), and cosmetics & body care (32%) ranking as the most popular categories for online purchases in 2024. 

The Irish are among the most active online shoppers in Europe, with 96% of internet users making digital purchases—a higher percentage than in the Netherlands (94%) and Denmark (91%). Notably, e-commerce adoption is high across all demographics, with 100% of 16-24-year-olds, 94.9% of 25-64-year-olds, and even 73.5% of 65-74-year-olds saying they shopped online in 2023.

Peak shopping periods & market leaders

The peak season for Irish e-commerce occurs between October and December, with 81% of consumers Christmas shopping online. Black Friday deals significantly impact consumer behavior, influencing 56% of shoppers to buy online.

By revenue, the top five online stores in Ireland in 2024 were:

1. Amazon.co.uk 
2. Tesco.ie 
3. Shein.com 
4. Next.ie
5. Apple.com

Collectively, Amazon, Tesco, and Shein account for 27.4% of the e-commerce market share of the top 100 e-commerce stores in Ireland.

Future outlook and opportunities

Ireland’s digital economy is expanding nine times faster than the broader economy, contributing approximately €12.3 billion, or 6% of the country’s GDP. Online revenue at Irish e-commerce sites surged 45% last year, with transaction volumes up 32%.

One of the emerging trends in Irish e-commerce is the rise of subscription-based models, particularly among younger demographics. Some 42% of 16-to 24-year-olds are now subscribed to at least one online service, reflecting a shift toward convenience-driven consumption.

The rapid adoption of alternative payment solutions, digital wallets, and enhanced security features will continue to shape the industry. The ongoing expansion of 5G connectivity will further drive mobile commerce, reinforcing the need for businesses to optimize for mobile-first experiences.

Why expand into Ireland?

Ireland presents a compelling opportunity for e-commerce businesses looking to expand. With one of the highest internet penetration rates in the world (98%) and a population that is highly engaged in online shopping, the country offers a dynamic and lucrative market. Here’s why businesses should consider entering the Irish e-commerce space:

• Strong consumer demand: Ireland has one of the highest percentages of online shoppers in Europe, with 96% of internet users making at least one digital purchase in 2024. 
• Growing digital economy: The Irish digital economy is expanding at a rapid pace—nine times faster than the broader economy—and contributes €12.3 billion to the nation’s GDP.
• Mobile-first market: With extensive 5G coverage and high smartphone penetration, mobile commerce is thriving. One in four online purchases is made via a mobile app, making Ireland an ideal market for businesses optimizing for mobile experiences.
• Favorable business environment: Ireland is known for its business-friendly policies, including competitive tax rates and strong support for tech and digital industries. It also serves as a gateway to the broader European market.
• English-speaking market: As an English-speaking country, Ireland offers a seamless expansion opportunity for businesses from the UK, US, and other English-speaking regions, reducing language barriers in customer communication and marketing efforts.
• Amazon’s strong presence: For Amazon sellers, Ireland is a particularly attractive market due to the well-established trust in Amazon.co.uk, which dominates the country’s e-commerce landscape. Irish consumers are accustomed to shopping on Amazon, making it easier for sellers to enter the market with minimal friction.

For businesses looking to scale in a digitally advanced and consumer-friendly market, Ireland offers significant potential for growth and success.

Expand your Amazon business to Ireland—at no extra cost!

Ireland is fast becoming a key e-commerce hub, offering businesses a strategic gateway to the larger EU market. With a favorable business environment and growing online sales, expanding to Ireland is an opportunity worth exploring—especially when you can do it at zero cost.

Sellers can now expand their business through Taxually’s Amazon Ireland Promotion without incurring any added fees. That’s because Amazon will reimburse you for your Taxually Ireland subscription, meaning you can establish your presence in Ireland without breaking the bank.

Book a free call with one of our experts today to learn more about the Amazon Ireland Promotion.