Are you a saver or a spender?
A bit of both. I am not someone who goes out on planned shopping trips, but rather a spontaneous shopper. That can be quite a sight, because then I tend to go a bit mad.
Do you shop around for better value?
I do online, as it is easy to flick from site to site but not from store to store. I go with what is more convenient.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
I have not really bought anything too extravagant, but I do like to treat myself on occasion. The last little treat I bought for myself was during a trip to New York when I went into the Swarovski shop in Fifth Avenue. Swarovski is one shop I tend to visit in every country I travel to – it's a bit of a tradition.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
Easy question, my Nespresso. It's used all day, every day.
What ways do you prefer to shop
– online or local?
Online. I am like the Amazon junkie. Last year I bought all my presents online for Christmas and availed of the "gift wrapping" service – a dream. I even do my grocery shopping online. For €5 at Tesco, they run around the shop and fill my basket and then drop it into my kitchen. That's what I call a bargain.
Do you haggle over prices?
No. I pay a fair price for a fair service or product, especially when I shop locally. If it's not fair I just won't buy, it's as simple as that for me. Everyone works hard for their money and I try to respect that.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
Eh, no, not really. But again, like most parents, we do over-indulge our children, so it did give me the platform to say to them "no, do you realise there is a recession on".
Cash or card?
Card! I think I have an allergy to cash – I put cash into my purse and then it seems to disappear. I think the kids can smell it.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
The last thing I bought was shares in my own company, and yes they are valuable!
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes, some years ago I bought a mobile holiday home and I have bought a car. The car could do with an update now, though, so maybe I should start that one again.
Have you ever lost money?
No, not that I recall. But there is nothing like putting on a pair of jeans and finding money in the pocket. I think that brings a smile to everyone's face.
Is money important to you?
Yes, the comfort and security of my family is most important to me. After that? Well, it's still important to be successful. Both Suzanne (my business partner and sister) and I have worked for many years to make Clevamama a success, so the financial reward for our efforts is certainly a driver.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
