Are you a saver or a spender?
I like to think I have a good balance of both, but some (my accountant) would say I should try saving a little more than spending. I’m a firm believer that we only have one life, and only regret the things you don’t do rather than what you did. Health is an absolute privilege and I try to never take it for granted so, for me, spending on experiences and creating memories is far more important than accumulating material possessions.
Do you shop around for better value?
I love to get a bargain, who doesn’t, right? There’s no better feeling than creating your own little mental wish list and revisiting them when they are reduced. Competitor pricing is something you are always attuned to as a business owner and this skill set was certainly born from my addiction to fashion!
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
I think my first pharmacy has to be my most extravagant purchase, and certainly one I will never regret or forget. I bought Meaghers on Baggot Street at the tender age of 28 for £2 million punts at the time! I look back now and think how could I have been so brave, and why wasn’t I crippled with fear at the responsibility, but I knew in my gut that I could make it work.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
My Kindle. It has pride of place on my nightstand. One of the greatest ways for me to switch off and unwind is reading a book. I’m a voracious reader and I love to escape to a book when I can. The bargain hunter in me is also satisfied because it costs me less than 20 cent a day, and gives me hours of escapism and joy.
How did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions — online or local?
I will always support local and buy Irish wherever possible. I am also a local Irish business and understand the importance of local support within your community; that’s what has got me to where I am today. I love the idea that I know the name of my local butcher, fishmonger and florist, and that personal touch is worth its weight in gold to a customer.
Do you haggle over prices?
It would depend on where I am. Abroad, yes, for sure as I wouldn’t feel as embarrassed, and I think it’s sort of expected in many countries. That said, I have been known to haggle in Ireland, too, on the very odd occasion, but truth be told I prefer that to be in a sale rather than haggling.
How has the Covid-19 crisis changed your spending habits?
I definitely notice that I use less cash now as card payments have completely overtaken cash payments. The arrival of Apple Pay and Revolut mean I frequently pay with my phone and may not even carry my cards most days. One thing I (and many others) stopped buying was lipstick because masks and personal protective equipment (PPE) gear put paid to that but it’s back on the rise again as we emerge from behind our masks.
Do you invest in shares?
A little bit, but I’m not a serious player. I have a few small investments in industries that I understand or feel that we will come to rely on more in the future, such as renewable energy. An area that holds particular interest for me, though, is MedTech and wearable technology. There are a small number of developments in this industry that I believe will be game-changers in the healthcare sector. Anything that can improve a patient’s quality of life is well worth considering for investment.
Cash or card?
I’d say 90 per cent card. I carry very little cash these days and, with two teenagers, it never tends to stay in my purse very long anyway.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
The last thing I bought was a new ecommerce fulfilment and order management system for our warehouse. It has improved accuracy in shipments, traceability, increases output and overall has been a complete game-changer. It may not sound glamorous, but it has already begun to pay dividends for us. Is it good value for money? Unequivocally yes.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
I have, but I would not say my efforts were always successful.
Have you ever lost money?
Oh, God, yes! I was one of those who bought bank shares back in the day — it probably has held me back from venturing too much into that world again. In hindsight it was a good lesson to learn, and I’ve chalked it all down to experience — or lack thereof.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
This is definitely down to perspective. I’m not a gambler in the formal sense of the word but I do make calculated gambles in my work life. I guess I’m more of a “calculated risk” kind of gal.
Is money important to you?
It’s important insofar as it definitely allows me to enjoy many more experiences with my family and friends. As I get older and a little bit wiser it becomes less important to me, and I certainly know that it does not buy you happiness. I’d rather be healthy and happy these days than have lots of material things that I know never fulfil you or bring true happiness. Nowadays, making memories takes precedence.
How much money do you have on you now?
In my purse right now I have €22.60, but the €20 is folded and hidden in the back so as to avoid detection by my children. Inevitably, they will get it in the end, but I never want to make it too easy.
