ME and MY MONEY:MARC AMAND, CHEF/OWNER OF LA ROUSSE FOODS
Are you a saver or a spender?Some of my close Irish friends used to call me Ebenezer! When I was building up my business, I used to have to mind every penny as all my income would go on purchasing more stock. Thankfully, as the business has become more established, it has enabled me to strike a better balance between saving and spending, though I lean towards saver I think.
Do you shop around for better value?All the time. You can only tell if something is good value by knowing the going rate, which only comes from shopping around. It sometimes amazes me the difference people can charge for the same thing . . . and get away with it!
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?In 2008, I bought a very expensive motorbike, and it cost me six months in hospital.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?I bought a scooter and have saved time and money, and reduced my stress levels. Dublin traffic can be chaotic and since opening a chocolate boutique in the city centre, I have found it invaluable.
Have you ever crossed the border to shop?No, because when you calculate the trip cost and travelling time, it doesn't add up. I feel quite strongly about supporting Irish brands and shopping locally where I can. Irish businesses need support now more than ever .
Do you haggle over prices?Yes, I haggle with vendors regularly, but I'm also a firm believer that everything has a value. A man once said to me, "Sometimes €100 is too little and €1 too much". Wise words.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?Not really, as I never was a big spender. The recession has certainly made people reassess their spending habits. From my experience in the chocolate shop, I find people are less likely to spend on big items but they are partial to affordable luxuries. It keeps the spirits up and doesn't put a hole in the pocket.
Do you invest in shares?Yes, unfortunately.
Cash or card?Mainly card. Cash doesn't last a minute for some reason. Using a card also helps me keep track of my spending.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?A plane ticket to France with Ryanair. Very good value.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?Yes, in 1992, I used all my savings to purchase a delivery van. It was the humble beginnings of my food company, La Rousse Foods. It was worth every penny as soon we celebrate 20 years in business.
Have you ever lost money? Yes, through bad investments and trusting the wrong people. I've learned valuable lessons along the way, though. I won't be repeating the same mistakes twice.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win? I never gamble. Gambling takes time, which I don't have a lot of. I'd never have the patience to study the odds or read the form. Sadly, that means I've never won anything.
Is money important to you?Yes, it allows you to have more freedom. I spent my 20s and 30s working night and day to earn it, so it's nice to finally reap the rewards. I never get too complacent, though.
How much do you have on you now? €10.75
Cocoa Atelier, 30 Drury Street, Dublin 2; House of Fraser, Dundrum Centre; cocoaatelier.ie
