ME AND MY MONEY:Andrew Rudd, chef

Are you a saver or a spender?

I am a spender if I have the cash, but this is not always the case. I’m not very sensible with money but I’m working on getting better and trying not to spend every penny that I have.

Do you shop around for better value?

Always. I love a bargain. I work with a lot of different suppliers so try to get the best value for money.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?

My car was €3,500. I couldn’t manage without a car as I travel around the country for different clients. I also need quite a bit of space in a car for trays of ingredients and equipment, so I’ve been on the look out for something bigger.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

My car. I use it every day.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

Not usually. But there is value to be had, on certain ingredients and wine.

Do you haggle over prices?

Always, but within context. I obviously won’t haggle over price in my local supermarket or cinema but when dealing with suppliers and buying in bulk it is imperative that I get the best possible price. I used to import produce from Malta and they would expect you to haggle, so it’s a good habit to have.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

Of course. I tend to be far more frugal these days. In my business, you never know when the work comes in. Being self employed has it benefits, but also has its pitfalls. I tend not to impulse buy anymore.

Do you invest in shares?

What are they?

Cash or card?

I don’t have a credit card, so I can’t spend on credit. The saving grace is that I can only spend what I have. But like a lot of people, I don’t always have cash on me.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

My last delivery of fruit and vegetables for a wedding gig for 131 guests.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

No. I haven’t needed to. I imagine I would be able to, if I really set my mind to it.

Have you ever lost money?

Yes, my wallet was stolen in Manchester with £200 in it last weekend. It really annoyed me and cast a shadow on the entire weekend.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?

I never gamble. I used to place a bet on my brother Tom when he was a national hunt jockey. The largest bet was €5.

Is money important to you?

I am not materialistic but I do need to live.

How much money do you have on you now?

€75. I probably won’t have it for very long.

The new Domino's Gourmet Range, developed with Andrew Rudd, is available nationwide. In conversation with CONOR POPE.