Are you a saver or a spender?
Spender at home, saver at work. At home, it's purely my money I'm spending. At work, we take a long-term view to invest in providing the best possible experience for customers whilst delivering value for our shareholders.
Do you shop around for better value?
I shop around for big purchases when you want the reassurance you’ve done your research and got a good deal for your money.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
A multitude of handbags for my partner – and I’ve lost count of the cost!
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
Our house – purchased for €80,000 less than its value after the seller was embarrassed he pulled out of selling it to us two years earlier.
What way do you shop – online or local?
I commute for work so shopping locally during the week isn’t really an option. At weekends, with three kids, it’s usually a more complex operation, so I buy most things online.
Do you haggle over prices?
I’m always keen to get the best deal so when I can haggle, I usually do.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
Like most people I’m scrutinising the value of my purchases and weighing up short term vs long term value a lot more.
Do you invest in shares?
Yes. We recently launched an employee share-purchase scheme to help employees at Expedia buy shares in the company, which provides a valuable investment scheme for our employees.
Cash or card?
Both – unfortunately, my kids’ piggy bank doesn’t take cards.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
Birthday presents for the kids’ rabbits! They are two years’ old and, according to the kids, they needed treats and toys – it’s still me that feeds and cleans them though – the rabbits that is!
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes, our house. It has a great family feel and the kids love it – and I think the rabbits are pretty happy there, too.
Have you ever lost money?
I’m not sure it’s possible to have three kids without losing money.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
No. Bookmakers have three desks to take your money and one to pay it out. I think that says it all, really.
Is money important to you?
What’s important to me is providing the best for my family.
How much money do you have on you now?
€24.20.
In conversation with Tony Clayton Lea
