Visit Cork has presented an ambitious tourism growth strategy at its industry day, focusing on increased promotion in key markets such as Germany and Canada for 2026.
Visit Cork has unveiled an ambitious growth plan for 2026, aiming to increase visitor numbers by 8-10pc and further support the 22,500 tourism jobs currently in the county.
Visit Cork is moving beyond its traditional reliance on the US market to target Canada as a priority from 2026, alongside a significant expansion in Germany. The plan is supported by increased flight frequencies, such as the expanded Frankfurt-Cork air service for summer 2026.
The Cork Convention Bureau is targeting sectors where Cork has global strengths, including STEM, space, maritime, and agri-tech, to build on the €150m already delivered to the local economy.
Focus will be placed on immersive experiences, food tourism (promoting Cork as “Ireland’s food capital”), and the night-time economy. The plan includes new sustainability initiatives, highlighted by the Visit Cork Green Award 2026, which recognises excellence in environmental and social responsibility.
The growth strategy aligns with the broader Fáilte Ireland 5-year development plan for Cork City, Harbour, and East Cork, focusing on increasing visitor spend and strengthening local communities.
These articles detail Visit Cork’s 2026 growth plan, including market expansion, enhanced connectivity, and experience-led tourism strategies.
The plan aims to boost overseas visitor numbers and spend by enhancing marketing efforts, product development, and partnerships to showcase Cork’s heritage, culture, and attractions as a must-visit Irish destination.
